In these tumultuous times, families are increasingly keeping their children at home, teaching them to carry identification as a shield against the uncertainties posed by ICE. Conversations that once solely affected Black and Brown families about law enforcement now resonate in homes of our immigrant neighbors of all ilk. These are not ordinary days; the political landscape demands a new kind of politics. We must challenge past orthodoxies and unify against MAGA interests.
Amidst this backdrop, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado launched a questionable gubernatorial campaign that looms like a storm cloud. If our goal is to keep New York blue and reclaim the House in 2026, we must prioritize collective interests over personal ambitions. Resources spent on a contentious primary would distract from our main objectives: retaining the governor’s mansion and flipping as many Republican House seats in New York as possible. Yet, Delgado pressed on, seemingly oblivious to these priorities.
Delgado has now dropped his ill-fated campaign. It is likely he simply ran out of the money and support necessary to gather the required petitions for the ballot. It is time for him to do the honorable thing and resign from his office, allowing former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams to be appointed as LG and partner with the governor in confronting a federal government that actively undermines our resources and values.
Delgado’s campaign centered on the need for bold, transformational leadership. However, what has he truly transformed during his time in office? His primary role has been to preside over the Senate, a duty he has largely neglected. In contrast, former Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin actively presided over the Senate, including during the 2022 state budget. Delgado lacks the relationships necessary to bridge divides for budget deals or address crucial legislative priorities.
Delgado has done little with the hate and bias prevention unit that Gov. Hochul entrusted him to lead. How can he address these issues now? He remains disconnected from the administration, and neither legislators nor constituents look to him for leadership on the myriad challenges our state faces.
Despite my occasional disagreements with her, Hochul has emerged as a staunch critic of President Trump and a champion for progressive ideals. She is combating ICE abuse in New York, supports prison reform and universal childcare. Her endorsement of DSA candidate Zohran Mamdani for mayor embodies the unity often lacking among Democrats.
Delgado’s gubernatorial campaign raised doubts about his character. Hochul elevated him from obscurity, providing a national platform, only for him to weaponize that position against her. Delgado acknowledges he cannot work with Hochul and does not believe in her vision. If he finds her leadership so lacking, he should resign and allow Adams to begin serving in the administration as a full and functioning partner to Hochul and help lead the state.
Delgado collects a paycheck from taxpayers while contributing little to New York’s working families. His time has been mostly spent advocating to take the job of the individual who gave him an opportunity to serve.
When Delgado broke ranks with Hochul and called for President Biden to quit his reelection bid, Delgado set a standard that he must now adhere to. If Delgado does not resign, he adds the label of hypocrite to perfidious.
It is time for Delgado to put New York’s ideals above personal ambitions. New Yorkers deserve and require a fully functioning and cohesive government. Resignation is the only honorable thing to do.
Foy is president and CEO of The Arc of Justice, a national social, economic, and environmental justice advocacy organization.
