Governor Kathy Hochul has emerged as a stark symbol of resistance in what some are calling the "new American confederacy," due to her bold and defiant response to Attorney General Pam Bondi's lawsuit against New York's leadership. The lawsuit, which centers on New York's sanctuary policies and the "Green Light Law," accuses the state of flouting federal immigration laws by obstructing ICE's enforcement capabilities. Hochul's dismissive characterization of the lawsuit as "worthless, publicity-driven" underscores her commitment to state sovereignty, echoing historical resistance against federal overreach akin to the original Confederacy's battle for states' rights. Her stance positions New York in direct opposition to federal mandates, showcasing a modern-day struggle between state autonomy and federal authority.
 

The legal challenge from AG Pam Bondi highlights the significant discord between state and federal powers, with New York's policies creating a battleground over immigration enforcement. Hochul's refusal to alter or reconsider these policies in light of the lawsuit signifies not just a policy disagreement but a profound ideological clash. By upholding New York's sanctuary status and protective laws for undocumented immigrants, Hochul is seen by critics as leading a charge against the federal government's jurisdiction. This defiance resonates with the spirit of the old Confederacy's fight for independence, where states felt they had the right to govern without federal interference. Hochul's leadership thus marks her as a central figure in this contemporary narrative of state defiance.
 

In this context, Hochul's approach is viewed not just as political posturing but as a deliberate choice to prioritize state laws over federal ones, potentially setting a dangerous precedent for national cohesion. Her actions, while applauded by those who support sanctuary policies and state rights, are criticized for undermining the foundational principle of the Supremacy Clause, which establishes federal law as the supreme law of the land. This has led to a perception of Hochul as a pathetic representative of this "new American confederacy," where states selectively adhere to federal law based on political alignment rather than constitutional obligation. The resulting legal battles and strained federal-state relations could have long-lasting implications for the unity and legal framework of the United States.