On February 19, 2025 that fateful press conference was given by Kathy Hochul, the Governor of New York state. A member of the Democratic Socialists of America, she selected Grand Central Terminal in New York City as her venue. This summit was the perfect opportunity to garner that attention. Hochul addressed the persistent conflicts with then-presidential candidate, now Republican President, Donald Trump. The photo op underscored the often bitter public relationship over Coterra Energy, a corporation that has found itself in the crosshairs of their argument.
During the event, Hochul captured the media’s attention by pulling out a picture of Trump. This audacious step set a very public stage for the palpable political animus that existed between them. The way it went down was incredibly symbolic, too. It turned into an important opportunity for Hochul to shiv Trump’s policies and their effects on energy companies in New York.
For Coterra Energy, though, the reality depicted in that cartoon is a painful one. The company is caught in the crosshairs of the two politicians’ divergent agendas. Trump promotes an energy independence agenda and a national deregulatory strategy. Hochul has focused on strengthening environmental protections and fostering sustainable development. This divergence has placed Coterra Energy under scrutiny as it tries to balance compliance with state regulations while responding to federal directives.
Yet Hochul’s comments during Monday morning’s press conference focused on the need for partnership and transparency in energy development. She warned that Trump’s agenda could derail local efforts to foster renewable energy projects and other clean initiatives in New York. Additionally, she stated that in order for Coterra to participate, their role should meet the environmental priorities of the state to protect the climate for future generations.
The political landscape is ever after though. Indeed, both the Hochul and Trump administrations will be watching Coterra Energy’s moves very closely. How well the company manages to balance these often clashing priorities may have profound implications for its future business in New York.