Rep. Stefanik Challenges Gov. Hochul on NY Sanctuary Policies During Congressional Hearing

New York Governor Kathy Hochul faced intense criticism from Republican Representative Elise Stefanik and others during a congressional hearing regarding New York's sanctuary state policies. Stefanik accused Hochul of protecting illegal immigrants accused of violent crimes, including cases such as Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, who set a woman on fire on a subway, and Shakir Akkan, a convicted rapist, highlighting Hochul's unfamiliarity with these cases. Hochul defended her stance by asserting cooperation with ICE despite sanctuary laws like the Green Light law and cashless bail, but critics argued that these policies allow criminals to evade federal authorities, contributing to public safety risks. Representatives Nick Langworthy and Marjorie Taylor Greene linked Hochul's policies to violent crimes, including the murder of a nursing student by an illegal immigrant who was allegedly released prematurely. The confrontation underscored the political and public backlash against sanctuary policies, with Stefanik positioning herself as a potential gubernatorial challenger and emphasizing the need for stricter immigration enforcement backed by President Trump’s administration. Hochul insisted that her office works with federal authorities and urged critics to consider the facts rather than viral moments, though skepticism from lawmakers and law enforcement persists.