January 15, New York – Republican gubernatorial candidate and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, along with State Senator Chen Xueli, Assemblyman Zheng Yongjia, Michael Novakhov, and some community leaders, held a press conference on 8th Avenue in Brooklyn to criticize the policies implemented by Governor Hochu and Mayor Mamdani. They believe that these policies directly impact the core values cherished by Asian Americans for generations.
“Let’s be clear about what is happening,” Blakeman said. “The policies of Hochu and Mamdani are impacting the values that have defined success for generations of Asian Americans – hard work, sacrifice, emphasis on education, belief in talent, and the dream of homeownership.” He mentioned that Mayor Mamdani, under the guise of “fairness,” is trying to eliminate the gifted and talented programs and adjust the selection mechanism of specialized high schools, which will reduce educational opportunities for Asian students. He specifically noted that although Asian and White students make up around 30% of the total student population, their representation is higher in gifted and talented programs and specialized high schools, making the policy changes particularly significant for the Asian community.
Blakeman further pointed out that this “antagonism towards success” now extends to homeownership, another cornerstone of Asian American family life. He warned that these policies should raise concerns for all immigrant families in New York, especially those who have fled communist regimes, stating that “education is under attack, homeownership is under attack, and Governor Hochu turns a blind eye to it.”
He criticized the freezing or strict rent controls, believing that these measures not only do not help increase affordable housing but may hinder investments, reduce housing supply, and weaken the fair returns and property rights of small landlords. He emphasized that market mechanisms should determine investments and returns, and the government should not “choose winners and losers.”
State Senator Chen Xueli pointed out that Governor Hochu’s definition of “affordability” in the State of the State address differs significantly from his and Blakeman’s. He argued that the Governor’s idea of affordability involves “emptying people’s pockets,” whereas he advocates for affordability to be reflected in lower property taxes, business taxes, and energy costs, rather than increasing the burden on residents and businesses. He criticized state-level energy and climate policies for raising residential heating and electricity prices by about 25%-30%, further squeezing the living space of middle-class families and small businesses.
Assemblyman Zheng Yongjia proposed a legislative concept to protect parents’ decision-making power on participation in gifted and talented programs (G&T). He also advocated for “unity” over “divisive diversity,” believing that education and housing policies should promote community cohesion rather than creating divisions.
Regarding congestion pricing, Blakeman stated that if elected governor, he would terminate the related fee schemes on his first day in office. He believed that this imposes an additional burden on the middle class and small businesses, and fails to effectively improve traffic and the economic environment.
When asked about sanctuary cities and the deportation of illegal immigrants, Blakeman emphasized that Nassau County has established a “non-sanctuary county” stance through executive orders and legislation, prioritizing the removal of illegal immigrants with criminal records in cooperation with ICE. He criticized the state and city governments for investing large amounts of public funds in immigrant resettlement, stating that the state and city have collectively spent about $12 billion, burdening taxpayers, not aligning with the priorities of the majority of New Yorkers, and saying “New Yorkers will come first.”
Additionally, Blakeman advocated for a federal-level “guest worker legalization” program, providing a pathway for long-term, law-abiding, and stable employed immigrants to register, pay taxes, and work legally. He stated that this is both out of compassion and meets the economic needs of sectors such as food and beverage, hospitality, and horticulture. While strictly dealing with those involved in criminal activities, providing a lawful way for law-abiding immigrants to stay in the community and live with their families.
After the event, Blakeman and his team visited the United Associations of American Guangdong Compatriots and interacted with local businesses along 8th Avenue from 63rd Street to 60th Street. He stated that 8th Avenue is a microcosm of New York City’s multiculturalism and economic vibrancy, as well as a symbol of immigrant communities prospering through hard work and entrepreneurial spirit.
The event centered around “common sense, excellence, and opportunities,” with participants calling for the protection of property rights, maintaining a selective education system, and supporting the development of small businesses and immigrant communities. Blakeman stated that if elected, “I will stand firmly with the Asian community and its shared values.”
Attendee Angel W expressed that the Chinese community should unite in supporting these elected officials because they can help Chinese people better integrate into American society. “They understand what is most beneficial for the country, community, society, and family, and their values align with the principles of hard work, responsibility, and the American Dream pursued by Chinese families. It is precisely because of this shared values that the community should provide support and encouragement, motivating elected officials to continue serving the public interest.”