NEW YORK — In less than two weeks, Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul will take on New York state's top job.

It’s a move that will likely trigger political musical chairs, starting first with her second-in-command.

In her first news conference on Wednesday, Hochul said she expects to announce her pick for lieutenant governor in the next two weeks.

When asked about the process, she chuckled. “Certainly a lot of people reached out to me,” Hochul said, clearly adjusting to her new popularity.

“Currently we’re considering a number of individuals,” she added.

The Buffalo native will have to make a political calculation when it comes to the post. Will she choose someone from downstate — either the five boroughs or its surrounding suburbs?

“I love upstate, I love downstate, I love the whole state,” Hochul said. "There are so many qualified individuals, but I am cognizant of the need for diversity and an inclusive ticket."

It’s something political observers echoed.

“She doesn't have to pick someone from New York City,” said Basil Smikle, a longtime political strategist and former executive director of the state Democratic Party. “She can pick from any of the city suburbs, Westchester or Long Island, but I think she does need a person of color because of the demographic changes in the state.”

If Hochul wants to seek a full term, observers say she has to diversify her ticket.

Already sources are putting names out there that she might consider: Harlem State Sen. Brian Benjamin, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., Bronx Sen. Jamaal Bailey, or maybe Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn from Brooklyn.

Bichotte Hermelyn sent us this statement when we asked if she’d like the post: "I spoke to Kathy last night and had a good conversation with her. As of today, my total focus is on my work in the Assembly and continuing to build a unified Democratic Party.”

Sources also told us Benjamin would likely consider the job if he was asked.

Beyond the lieutenant governor post, the political shakeup could trickle down elsewhere. Already there’s a lot of speculation on who might run for governor next year. If Attorney General Letitia James were to run, then it opens up a race for her current seat.

We know of one potential candidate — State Sen. Michael Gianaris — there may be more to come.

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