Otsego County Democratic Chair Caitlin Ogden is running against current state Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs for the top leadership position in the party. This marks the first time Jacobs, who has held the role since 2019 and also serves as Nassau County’s Democratic chair, has faced a challenger. Ogden argues that while Jacobs has helped the party survive, the political landscape is changing and a new leader is needed to advance Governor Kathy Hochul’s vision of more consistent, statewide Democratic organizing throughout the year. Ogden, who previously supported Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado’s bid against Hochul, now focuses on expanding Hochul’s efforts to use the party to support candidates at all levels of the ballot. She criticized the current system, saying that the state Democratic Party has played a bigger role in recent years but often only mobilizes in the run-up to major elections. In 2022, Ogden expected a coordinated campaign effort but found only limited support, such as 40 signs for Hochul’s campaign in late October. Jacobs acknowledged the need for more consistent organizing but questioned the feasibility of funding year-round efforts, citing the high cost—between $6 and $8 million—needed to sustain such campaigns. He highlighted the party’s achievements, including a grant program that provided $1 million to county committees and allowing local resolutions to be debated. He also pointed out that the party performed well in the 2024 elections despite challenges in 2022. The state Democratic Party will vote on Oct. 1 to decide whether Jacobs remains chair, with the outcome determined by elected committee members, though they have historically followed the governor’s choice. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has confirmed he will not attend protests against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who will be in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly. Mamdani emphasized his focus on ensuring the city is prepared to host international visitors and keeping New Yorkers safe. His stance contrasts with his earlier strong anti-Israel rhetoric and pro-Palestinian activism. Mamdani has faced criticism for continuing to discuss arresting Netanyahu, despite knowing he lacks the legal authority to do so, with some accusing him of stoking antisemitism. In other developments, Mamdani’s administration plans to install 17 free public bathrooms across the five boroughs as part of a one-year, $4 million pilot project with Throne Labs. The bathrooms will be climate-controlled and equipped with basic amenities. Meanwhile, Democratic Rep. Pat Ryan and former city Comptroller Brad Lander have pledged to reject donations from Leading the Future, a pro-AI political group. Ryan criticized the group’s ties to Big Tech, while Lander emphasized the need for strong AI safeguards. The public condemnations come amid growing concerns about AI’s potential risks, with New York politicians urging federal and state-level regulation. Leading the Future has defended its position, saying it supports a national regulatory framework for AI.