Governor Kathy Hochul Declines to Support Steve Cohen’s Queens Casino Bid

On Thursday, October 10th, New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated that she has no intention of assisting Mets owner Steve Cohen’s bid for a casino license in Queens, following reports that she might include provisions in the 2025 state budget to help Cohen’s project. Hochul made it clear during a press briefing that she would not be introducing any legislation related to the controversial casino bid near Citi Field, a project that has faced significant opposition.

The reports originally suggested that Hochul might propose changes to the state’s Uniform Land-Use Reform Process (ULURP), which could allow for the development of the casino complex on parkland near Citi Field. However, Hochul firmly denied any involvement, stating, “I have had no intention of putting this in my executive budget.” She further added that such a move would set a “dangerous precedent” and emphasized that the casino licensing process is being handled independently by the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) and the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board (NYS GFLB).

Cohen’s bid, backed by Hard Rock, involves an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex, but it requires legislative approval to repurpose the parkland. Local opposition, particularly from State Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district includes the proposed site, has made it difficult for the project to gain traction. Ramos has been a vocal critic of the plan, and without legislative backing, the project cannot proceed.

While Cohen is a significant donor to Hochul’s political campaigns, with contributions totaling over $136,000 in 2021, Hochul dismissed any suggestions that she was playing favorites in the casino bidding process. “That would be wildly inappropriate,” she said, distancing herself from the controversy.

The bidding process for three new casino licenses in the New York City area has been highly competitive, with multiple parties vying for approval. Hochul’s decision not to intervene in Cohen’s bid marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle over the future of casino development in Queens.

The New York State Gaming Commission is expected to issue the casino licenses in 2025, leaving Cohen’s bid uncertain without the necessary legislative changes.