Zephyr Teachout, the Fordham University law professor challenging New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in next week's Democratic primary, called Cuomo's policies "indistinguishable" from those of Ronald Reagan, particularly when it comes to public education in the state.
"We have larger class sizes, less funding than we've had in decades," Teachout said during an appearance on HuffPost Live Thursday. "And Andrew Cuomo isn't doing anything about it. Instead, he's taking money away from schools to pay for his tax breaks for big banks."
Teachout said New York's increasing class sizes and an overall loss in art and music programs can be traced back to Cuomo favoring the interests of wealthy donors and Wall Street executives.
"So the kids are really hurting because the banks are doing well," she added.
Teachout's own vision, one that she notes is personal due to her longstanding experience in the field, pushes for small class sizes and access to recreational programs. She also said public school teachers need to be trusted.
Although Teachout remains relatively unknown among likely Democratic voters, Teachout has gained considerable momentum in the past few weeks, namely with increasing coverage and a slew of endorsements from progressive groups.
Former New York City public advocate Mark Green (D) and actor Mark Ruffalo are some of the most recent high-profile names to back her campaign.
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