Hochul Addresses Debate on Victims of Crime by Illegal Immigrants

<p>New York Governor Kathy Hochul did not directly apologize to the families of individuals killed by illegal immigrants during a gubernatorial debate on October 14, 2026, when confronted by Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman.</p><p>Blakeman highlighted several victims and asked Hochul what she would say to families who will "never get to sit at another Thanksgiving dinner, never be able to open their presents on their Christmas tree." He specifically requested an apology and urged her to return calls from Sheridan Gorman's parents regarding her sanctuary policy.</p><p>Jose Medina-Medina, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, faces charges related to the fatal shooting of Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago student, as she walked with friends near her campus.</p><p>Gorman's death has prompted her parents to advocate for changes to sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).</p><p>Hochul described all crimes as "heartbreaking" and stated, "I abhor all crimes, regardless of the perpetrator." She noted that her administration has invested billions to assist law enforcement in reducing crime across the state.</p><p>Hochul asserted that crime rates, particularly violent crimes like shootings and murders, have reached historic lows due to her administration's efforts, which included changing laws and allocating additional funding.</p><p>When asked about returning Gorman's parents' calls or apologizing, Hochul shifted the focus to victims of federal immigration agents, mentioning Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were killed during encounters with ICE agents in Minneapolis.</p><p>She challenged Blakeman on whether he believed Pretti's death was justified, stating, "I find those answers just reprehensible, so you won't apologize. I apologize for any pain that has happened to anyone." This exchange drew significant attention on social media, with critics accusing Hochul of failing to acknowledge the victims.</p><p>Comments on social media included strong criticisms of Hochul's response, with various users expressing dissatisfaction regarding her lack of an apology and her handling of the issue.</p><p>Voters will choose between Hochul and Blakeman in the upcoming November election for New York governor.</p>