Praise the Lord! Torres and Lawler are genuine talent vying for governor of New York in 2026.

Representative Ritchie Torres (D-Bx.) is fiercely criticizing Governor Kathy Hochul and the entire state Democratic establishment. He is not the only voice for change, as there is a significant Republican challenge building with Representative Mike Lawlor (R-Hudson Valley) for Hochul’s re-election in 2026.

For months, Torres has been a progressive voice, also speaking honestly about Israel and its defense against Iran and its allies. Recently, he has been outspoken on various issues.

During a Citizen Budget Commission breakfast, Torres criticized New York’s “misgovernance” and anti-business policies, stating that current regulations make it difficult to do business and hinder construction opportunities.

He also criticized the energy policies implemented by Cuomo and Hochul, which have led to high electricity costs and insufficient power for economic growth.

In addition, Torres credited former President Donald Trump for uniting different working-class groups in America, something the Democratic Socialists have struggled to achieve.

He also addressed public safety concerns, accusing the government, Mayor Adams, and Democratic lawmakers of being complicit in a recent murder spree in New York.

Torres has also criticized President Biden’s handling of the migrant crisis and compared Hochul to Biden, warning of her vulnerabilities as a Democratic nominee compared to Trump’s popularity in New York.

Despite rumors of a mayoral run, Torres has expressed interest in running for governor, potentially against Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Lawlor, another prominent figure, is also challenging Hochul on various issues, including her congestion pricing scheme and climate policies.

There is a growing number of young, energetic politicians eyeing Hochul’s office, indicating a potential shake-up in the 2026 gubernatorial race.

While the 2025 mayoral election will capture attention, the maneuvering for the 2026 gubernatorial race promises to be exciting.