New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently embarked on a series of state visits across Europe. Her journey included a visit to the Vatican, Ireland, and multiple engagements with global leaders.
At the Vatican, Hochul participated in a climate summit alongside other prominent figures such as California Governor Gavin Newsom and London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The conference, convened by Pope Francis, emphasized the urgent need for climate action. “Are we working for a culture of life or a culture of death?” the Pope questioned.
Hochul’s address at the summit underscored New York’s commitment to combating climate change. She announced a significant $300 million investment in environmental resiliency, targeting regions severely affected by climate crises. “Disadvantaged communities should not be any worse environmentally than any other affluent community. That is an injustice, and we’ll continue to fight that,” Hochul asserted.
Reflecting on her upbringing as a “social justice Catholic,” Hochul shared how her family’s values shaped her political journey. “It was a profound experience for me, sitting there reflecting on my family’s teachings,” she said. This personal connection was further deepened by her invitation to Pope Francis to keep New Yorkers in his prayers, which she described as “meaningful.”
The trip also provided an opportunity for Hochul to honor her family roots in Ireland. She planned to visit County Kerry, her ancestral home, and participate in a homecoming ceremony.
Despite facing challenges, such as the collapse of ambitious offshore wind projects due to supply chain issues, Hochul remains optimistic about New York’s progress towards its clean energy goals. She highlighted the state’s resilience and determination in the face of climate adversity, aligning with her broader vision of responsibility.
