Hochul projected winner of race for NY State governor

ALBANY, N.Y. – History has been made. NBC News is projecting Kathy Hochul as winner of the New York State governor’s race. She becomes the first woman elected governor of the Empire State.

“And yes, the glass ceiling like the one that’s above us here today, has finally been shattered – and you made it happen,” Hochul said, addressing supporters.

Hochul fended off a challenge from Republican Rep. Lee Zeldin. The two sparred over crime, criminal justice reform, abortion rights, and climate change.

Speaking to supporters, Hochul said her office had accomplished so much in one year, and her team would act “with boldness and urgency” to accompish even more over the next four years.

“And I believe with every fiber of my body that our best days lie ahead.”

Earlier in the day, Hochul expressed confidence that she’d take home the win.

“I want to lead this state into the next four years and possibly beyond with that sense of optimism we have not had here in a long time,” she said in New York City. “I want to bring that to New Yorkers and that’s what going to start first thing tomorrow morning.”