Rep. Ritchie Torres ripped New York’s “misgovernance” during a withering speech Monday that stirred talks the Bronx Democrat could be eyeing a run for governor. Sounding like a politician with higher aspirations,

In the weeks after Election Day Torres, an outspoken pro-Israel advocate, has signaled that he may challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul in a primary in 2026.

N.Y., on Wednesday refused to rule out mounting a 2026 Democratic primary challenge to Gov. Kathy Hochul. Although he dodged a direct question about taking on Hochul, the Bronx lawmaker pointedly decried a “crisis of governance” on both the state and city levels.

Sounding like a politician with higher aspirations, Bronx Rep. Ritchie Torres delivered a withering assessment of New York's policies and rules as anti-growth while saying voters' disgust with city and state "misgovernance" spurred more support for President-elect Donald Trump.

Torres has been making inroads in recent months, especially with business interests. The former city councilmember has also been a strong supporter of Israel since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack.