New York Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks about her state's $400 million "Empire AI" initiative at the Milken Institute's event. (Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)
"It’s sort of our attitude," Hochul continued. "We will be the best, we will be the first, and I want others to follow, because 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."
Her remarks were intended to generate publicity for the state's $400 million "Empire AI" initiative funding artificial intelligence in the state.
The governor is focused on expanding access to training on cutting-edge technology to children in low-income areas, including the Bronx.
In this aerial view taken from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, the Bronx is seen in New York City, with Yankee Stadium visible in the center. (Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)
"I’m deeply troubled by the recent statements made by [Hochul]. The underlying perception conveyed about Black and brown children from the Bronx is not only disheartening but also deeply concerning," fellow Assembly Member John Zaccaro Jr. said.
Hochul apologized for her comments in a statement to the New York Post, saying she "misspoke" during her speech and regrets the mistake.
"Of course Black children in the Bronx know what computers are," Hochul told the Post. "The problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI. That’s why I’ve been focused on increasing economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration."
Timothy Nerozzi is a writer for Fox News Digital. You can follow him on Twitter @timothynerozzi and can email him at timothy.nerozzi@fox.com
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