New York Governor Kathy Hochul has come under fire for her statement suggesting that black children in the Bronx are unfamiliar with the word "computer." Speaking at a technology panel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, the Democrat's remarks stirred controversy, particularly among Bronx officials and residents.

Hochul, while discussing New York's artificial intelligence initiative at the Milken Institute Global Conference, mentioned a new AI consortium and plans to build a supercomputer accessible to researchers. However, her assertion about black children's knowledge of computers drew swift criticism.

In response to the backlash, Hochul later clarified that she misspoke and expressed regret for her words. She emphasized that her intention was to highlight the issue of access to technology faced by many minority communities, rather than questioning their familiarity with computers.

Bronx elected officials, including assembly members Karines Reyes and Amanda Septimo, condemned Hochul's comments. Reyes, who is Afro-Latina, described herself as "deeply disturbed" by the governor's remarks, while Septimo, who is black, characterized them as "harmful, deeply misinformed, and genuinely appalling."

Hochul's statement underscores the importance of addressing disparities in access to technology and opportunities for marginalized communities.

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