ALBANY — Newly minted Gov. Kathy Hochul will tap state Sen. Brain Benjamin as her Lieutenant Governor pick, sources confirmed to The Post on Wednesday.
“I’m very excited. Brian Benjamin is a wonderful choice. Brian is active and appreciated in the community,” former Harlem Congressman Charles Rangel told The Post, noting Hochul’s decision is wise as she is trying to expand her base.
“It’s one of the reasons he was selected. It certainly broadens Hochul’s base beyond Buffalo.”
Benjamin, a Harlem Democrat, was first elected to the state Senate in 2016 and has served two terms in the chamber.
He also ran a failed campaign for New York City Comptroller earlier this year, losing the primary in June to City Councilman Brad Lander.
Hochul had previously said she wanted her number two pick to come from New York City, and other individuals on her short list included Bronx state Sen. Jamaal Bailey and Brooklyn Democratic Chair, state Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.
“All about the Benjamins about to be played on a statewide level! As we reimagine New York, we continue to move forward with the best. Huge congrats to my brother @NYSenBenjamin and his wonderful family on this well-deserved appointment as our new Lieutenant Governor! #HarlemWorld,” tweeted Bailey, praising Benjamin.
A request for comment from Benjamin was not immediately returned to The Post.