Kathy Hochul's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Kathy Hochul. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Kathy Hochul is an American politician and lawyer currently serving as the 57th Governor of New York since 2021. As a member of the Democratic Party, she holds the distinction of being the first female governor of New York State. Her career has primarily been in public service.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

1979: Received an 'A' from Student Newspaper

In 1979, The Daily Orange, the student newspaper, awarded Kathy Hochul an 'A' for her campus contributions and changes.

1982: Closest Democratic Victory Since 1982

In 2022, Kathy Hochul won a full term in office, defeating Republican nominee Lee Zeldin in the closest New York gubernatorial election since 1994 and the closest Democratic victory since 1982.

1994: Narrowest New York Gubernatorial Election Since 1994

In 2022, Hochul won the narrowest New York gubernatorial election since 1994.

November 2010: Reelected as Erie County Clerk

In November 2010, Kathy Hochul was reelected as Erie County Clerk, defeating Republican Clifton Bergfeld with 80% of the vote.

May 2011: Won Special Election for NY's 26th Congressional District

In May 2011, Kathy Hochul won a special election for New York's 26th congressional district, becoming the first Democrat to represent the district in 40 years.

May 24, 2011: Won Special Election for Congress

On May 24, 2011, Kathy Hochul won the special election to fill the seat in New York's 26th congressional district.

January 1, 2015: Sworn in as Lieutenant Governor

On January 1, 2015, Kathy Hochul was sworn in as the Lieutenant Governor of New York, after winning the general election with Andrew Cuomo.

March 2016: Named to Women's Suffrage Commission

In March 2016, Kathy Hochul was named to the New York State Women's Suffrage 100th Anniversary Commemoration Commission by Governor Cuomo.

2018: Defeated Jumaane Williams in Democratic Primary

In 2018, Kathy Hochul defeated Jumaane Williams in the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor and subsequently won the general election with Andrew Cuomo.

August 24, 2021: Became Governor of New York

On August 24, 2021, Kathy Hochul took office as the Governor of New York after Andrew Cuomo resigned.

August 24, 2021: Sworn in as Governor

On August 24, 2021, Kathy Hochul was sworn in as Governor of New York, becoming the state's first female governor and the first governor from outside NYC and its suburbs since 1932.