Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, a political independent, endorsed Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul's election to a full term on Thursday.

Hochul's Republican opponent, Lee Zeldin, was given the endorsement of another law enforcement organization the same day.

The race for governor in New York is entering its final weeks as both candidates seek to highlight their advantages as early voting is set to begin in the coming days.

Walsh, first elected mayor in 2017, said Hochul is someone who has consistently cares about his city.

"From her time as a student at Syracuse University to her work as lieutenant governor, she's developed a deep understanding of our city. That's not something I take for granted," Walsh said. "And from acting on our concerns about public safety to providing state support for economic development initiatives, Governor Hochul has been a reliable partner to Syracuse. I'm pleased to endorse Gov. Hochul for a full term and look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen Syracuse and all of New York."

Zeldin, meanwhile, was given the endorsement of the New York City Sergeants Benevolent Association, the fifth largest organization representing police in the country. Zeldin has sought to highlight concerns around public safety and crime during his campaign for governor. He's won the backing of 25 law enforcement groups during the campaign.

“We are living in precarious times, with little or no support from the political establishment at all levels of government," said Vincent Vallelong, the group's president. "Rep. Zeldin has never wavered in his support of law enforcement, even during times when it might have seemed beneficial for him to do so. He is resolute in his legislative priorities and makes clear that nothing is more important than public safety.”