Gov. Kathy Hochul Criticized for Rude Comment About Black Kids in the Bronx and Computers

ALBANY, NY – New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says she regrets making a rude comment that suggested black kids in the Bronx don’t know what the word “computer” means.

Hochul, a Democrat, made the extraordinary comment Monday while being interviewed at a major business conference in California to discuss expanding economic opportunities in California. artificial intelligence for low-income communities.

“Right now, we have young black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word computer is. They don’t know, they don’t know these things,” Hochul said while on stage at the Milken Institute Global Conference.

The idea was not addressed in the interview and the governor went on to explain that her goal is to provide pathways for communities of color to access emerging artificial intelligence technologies as a way to address or -social equality.

However, the gaffe drew immediate criticism from some New York political leaders, including state Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo, a Bronx Democrat, who called the statement “harmful, misinformed and outrageous.”

In a statement later Monday, Hochul said “I didn’t speak badly and I’m sorry.”

“Of course black kids in the Bronx know what computers are – the problem is that too often they don’t have access to the technology needed to get on the a path to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI,” Hochul said. “That is why I have been focused on greater economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration, and I will continue that fight to ensure that all New Yorker’s view of a well-paid job. “

New York state Senate Speaker Carl Heastie, a Democrat who represents the Bronx in the Legislature, came to Hochul’s defense when her comments began gaining traction online.

“Although the governor’s words were rude and hurtful, I don’t believe that’s where her heart lies. I strongly believe she wants to see all of our students excel,” Heastie said.