- New York 09/03/2014 (AP)

Kathy Hochul's bid to become New York's next lieutenant governor has been endorsed by New York City's mayor as she pushes back against a Democratic Primary challenger who has questioned her liberal credentials.

Mayor Bill de Blasio called Hochul a progressive who stood up for her beliefs as a Buffalo congresswoman.

De Blasio announced his endorsement Wednesday at a City Hall appearance where Hochul vowed to support liberal priorities like a higher minimum wage and the Dream Act for young immigrants.

Hochul is Gov. Andrew Cuomo's pick to replace Lt. Gov. Robert Duffy, who isn't seeking another term. She faces Columbia University law professor Tim Wu in Tuesday's primary.

Wu has questioned Hochul's congressional record, saying she had conservative views on guns and the environment.