As she seeks a full term this year, Gov. Kathy Hochul is turning to what has become a reliable union ally for Democratic elected officials in New York: The Hotel Trades Council. 

Hochul on Thursday morning rallied with the labor union in New York City, a campaign event that comes amid the state budget negotiations this month. 

The union is a small, but politically active one. This year, it's backing the full slate of Democratic candidates endorsed by the party as Hochul is also potentially set to face a June primary challenge from New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi. 

“During such a crucial period of recovery in New York, there is nothing more important than having competent and proven leaders. Gov. Hochul, Lt. Gov. Benjamin, Attorney General James, and Comptroller DiNapoli are those leaders. We could not be any prouder to stand hand in hand with them to promote Democratic unity and commit our time and resources to see them re-elected," said Rich Maroko, the union's president. 

Hochul this year is backing a variety of measures in the budget that could be beneficial to tourism and hotel workers, including the expansion of casino licensing in the New York City area. 

At the same time, labor is expected to play an even more pivotal role going forward for Democrats in what's expected to be a difficult political landscape. 

"In her short time as our governor, Kathy Hochul has proven herself to be an effective leader and a fierce champion for working families," Maroko said. "She has been thoughtful and bold about her approach to the recovery of our crucial tourism industry and especially tourism workers. New Yorkers have been incredibly fortunate to have her leadership during these times, and we intend to do everything we can do see her elected to her first full term as our governor.”