Republican Gov. Candidate Bruce Blakeman Joins The Viktor Frankl Podcast with Lubavitcher Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch

Nassau County Executive and Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman delivered a sharp critique of New York’s political leadership during an interview on the Viktor Frankl podcast with Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, warning that rising antisemitism, increasing crime, and the growing influence of democratic socialism are threatening the future of the Empire State.

Blakeman, who is seeking to unseat Governor Kathy Hochul in 2026, said protecting New York’s Jewish community would be among his highest priorities if elected governor. He argued that Jewish New Yorkers are experiencing unprecedented levels of fear as antisemitic incidents continue to rise and accused New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani of emboldening anti-Israel activists through his rhetoric and political alliances.

“I will not tolerate antisemitism. I will not tolerate any bigotry in the State of New York,” Blakeman said, promising to use every tool available to ensure Jewish communities can live, worship, and attend school without fear.

During the interview, Blakeman contrasted his handling of anti-Israel demonstrations in Nassau County with what he described as the failures of New York City officials to maintain order on college campuses and during anti-Israel protests. He said peaceful protest would always be protected, but violence, intimidation, and harassment would be met with immediate law enforcement action.

The conversation also focused heavily on public safety. Blakeman sharply criticized New York’s cashless bail law, calling it “a revolving door of criminality,” and blamed Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for policies that he believes have made communities less safe. He pledged to strengthen law enforcement, fully staff police departments, and, if necessary, use the authority of the governor to intervene if New York City fails to maintain public order.

Economic issues also featured prominently. Blakeman argued that excessive taxes, soaring utility costs, and burdensome regulations have driven businesses and families out of New York. Pointing to his record in Nassau County—including multiple budget surpluses, tax restraint, and improvements in public safety—he said the same policies could restore economic growth across the state.

Blakeman also warned about the growing influence of democratic socialism, saying history has repeatedly shown that socialist policies weaken economies and reduce opportunity. He criticized proposals such as expanding government-funded benefits while arguing that New York’s future depends on encouraging private enterprise, lowering taxes, and rewarding work rather than expanding government control.

Asked why voters should believe New York can recover, Blakeman said the state still possesses enormous strengths but requires new leadership willing to confront crime, support police, protect the Jewish community, and restore confidence in government.

Closing the interview, Blakeman expressed optimism that New York’s best days can still lie ahead.

“Help is on the way,” he said. “I’m running for governor for you, for your children, and for your grandchildren—to make New York a better state for them.”