Governor Kathy Hochul is facing backlash after remarks she made to a predominantly Black congregation in Buffalo about how residents should use their inflation rebate checks.
While addressing worshippers at True Bethel Baptist Church on East Ferry Street this past Sunday, Hochul noted that rebate checks included in the state’s $254 billion budget would soon be sent out, with some families receiving up to $400. She urged people to use the funds wisely, saying, “We collected more in sales tax. I said, ‘That’s not my money. That’s their money,’ you people across the state of New York. Checks are coming out soon. Watch the mail, OK? OK? Don’t spend it all one day. Get something you really need, OK? Don’t stop by the liquor store, OK? Buy something for the kids, buy them some food.” She went on to add: “Sometimes I have to stop by the liquor store, too. I understand. It’s all right. It’s all right.”
The comments quickly drew fire from critics who labeled them racially insensitive. On Tuesday, after an event in New York City, Hochul responded by saying her words were intended as a lighthearted joke about the stress families face…