Governor Kathy Hochul, one of New York’s most vocal advocates for combating climate change, is under fire for spending an estimated $415,000 on private jet travel since 2021. Critics argue this extravagant and environmentally damaging travel directly contradicts her public stance on reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.
Hypocrisy in Action: Hochul’s Private Jet Use
Hochul’s campaign committee reportedly used private jets at least 30 times over the past few years, with flights provided by Zephyr Jets and Apollo Jets. Each flight cost a minimum of $5,000, with one trip in January 2023 totaling $38,594. A medium-sized private jet burns approximately 320 gallons of fuel for a single trip between Albany and New York City—far more than the emissions of any standard vehicle.
Critics have blasted Hochul’s reliance on private jets as emblematic of a “rules for thee, not for me” attitude, where she publicly calls for sacrifices from New Yorkers while exempting herself. “Her actions make it clear she is more interested in convenience than practicing what she preaches about environmental stewardship,” said one political commentator.
Contradiction of Policy and Practice
Hochul has championed aggressive environmental policies, including the Climate Change Superfund Act, which imposes a $75 billion tax on fossil fuel companies over 25 years to fund infrastructure projects aimed at combating climate change. She has repeatedly called for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and holding polluters accountable.
Yet her personal actions undermine these efforts. “Hochul is quick to lecture New Yorkers about their carbon footprint but shows no willingness to lead by example,” said a Bronx representative. “This is blatant hypocrisy.”
Public and Political Backlash
The hypocrisy has sparked outrage among both constituents and lawmakers:
- Local Reaction: Many New Yorkers are furious that their governor, who demands sacrifices in the name of climate action, has racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars in private jet bills. One local pilot criticized her, saying, “There is no reason why any elected official in New York should be taking a private jet.”
- Political Criticism: Representative Ritchie Torres slammed Hochul, stating, “When it comes to combating climate change, the governor is conspicuously failing to practice what she preaches.”
Weak Defense
Hochul’s team defended her jet use, claiming it was necessary for campaign-related travel, including fundraisers, rallies, and party events. However, this defense has done little to quell criticism. Many argue that Hochul could easily use commercial flights or other less environmentally damaging means of travel, especially given the state’s extensive transportation infrastructure.
A Pattern of Elitism
This isn’t the first time Hochul has been accused of hypocrisy. Her push for congestion pricing in New York City, which charges drivers up to $9 to enter Manhattan below 60th Street, has been criticized for disproportionately affecting middle- and working-class commuters while doing little to address the city’s broader environmental issues.
A Leadership Crisis
Governor Hochul’s actions raise serious questions about the sincerity of her commitment to combating climate change. While she demands accountability from fossil fuel companies and everyday New Yorkers, her private jet habit paints a starkly different picture. Her behavior underscores a growing perception of elitism and disconnect between political leaders and the public they claim to serve.
As one critic put it, “If Governor Hochul truly believes in reducing emissions and protecting the planet, she should start by looking in the mirror.”