ALBANY – State Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James has unofficially dropped out of the race for New York governor. The Democrat has been considered the biggest primary challenge for Governor Kathy Hochul and she suspended her campaign on Thursday.
“I have come to the conclusion that I must continue my work as attorney general,” James said in a statement. “There are a number of important investigations and cases that are underway, and I intend to finish the job. I am running for re-election to complete the work New Yorkers elected me to do.”
James announced her candidacy two months ago without releasing a policy platform and was way behind Hochul’s fundraising efforts. Governor Hochul has a war chest of nearly $10 million for the upcoming primary and general election. Hochul still faces a primary challenge from fellow Democrats. Congressman Tom Suozzi and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams are still in the race.