Trump Criticizes New York Governor Kathy Hochul Over Hijab During Visit to Islamic Center
Trump Criticizes New York Governor Kathy Hochul Over Hijab During Visit to Islamic Center
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US President Donald Trump has criticized New York Governor Kathy Hochul after she wore a hijab during a visit to an Islamic center in New York, prompting the governor to condemn what she described as Islamophobic and anti-Muslim rhetoric and reaffirm her commitment to respecting people of all faiths.
Trump shared a photograph of Hochul wearing a hijab while speaking to worshippers on his Truth Social platform and launched a sharp criticism of the governor. He accused her of seeking to attract Arab-American voters and linked his remarks to her policies concerning congestion pricing in Manhattan.
Hochul rejected Trump’s criticism, explaining that she had been a guest at a Muslim place of worship and that wearing the hijab was an expression of respect for the community that had welcomed her.
In a post on X, Hochul said she would not apologize for treating followers of every religion with dignity and respect. She also criticized rhetoric directed against Islam and Muslims, emphasizing the importance of religious tolerance and inclusion.
Hochul wore the hijab during a visit to a school affiliated with an Islamic cultural center in New York City. During the visit, she joined members of the local community for Friday prayers, addressed worshippers, toured several facilities, and learned about the institution’s educational and community services.
The Islamic center welcomed the governor’s visit, describing it as recognition of its role as a community institution serving New Yorkers. It also praised the emphasis placed on ensuring that people from different backgrounds feel safe and respected within the wider community.
