Gov. Kathy Hochul endorsed Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz in her Democratic primary this month. 

Katz is running for a second term and faces George Grasso in this month's primary with early voting underway. Primary day itself is June 27. 

"As Queens District Attorney, Melinda has never wavered in her commitment to keeping our streets safe and our criminal justice system fair," Hochul said. "Melinda has done an amazing job of tackling crime and improving justice — from working with the police to get guns off our streets and expanding efforts to ensure conviction integrity to taking on human trafficking and domestic violence and protecting workers. I’m proud to endorse her for re-election."

This is a relatively low-key primary year on the local level for off-year elections. But it's also Hochul's chance to weigh in on these races after winning a full term of her own last year. Hochul took office in August 2021; too late to be much of a presence in primary races. 

“Gov. Kathy Hochul has been a dedicated partner in our joint mission to keep New Yorkers safe and hold people accountable for their actions," Katz said. "She is tireless in her efforts to crack down on crime, strengthen gun safety laws, boost our economy and uplift our communities. As the first woman governor of our state, Gov. Hochul has also led the effort to secure access to reproductive care – a vital women’s rights issue I have fought to preserve throughout my entire 29-year career in public service. I am honored to receive the governor’s endorsement."