Governor Hochul Responds to Trump’s Withdrawal of Congestion Pricing Approval

By Y.M. Lowy

In a significant development, the Trump administration has rescinded federal approval for New York City’s congestion pricing program. 

Governor Kathy Hochul swiftly condemned the federal decision releasing a statement, “Public transit is the lifeblood of New York City and critical to our economic future,” she said. “Since this first-in-the-nation program took effect last month, congestion has dropped dramatically, and commuters are getting to work faster than ever.” She pointed to positive outcomes such as increased foot traffic to local businesses and improved school bus punctuality.

In response to the federal withdrawal, Hochul vowed to challenge the decision in court. “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king,” she stated. “The MTA has initiated legal proceedings in the Southern District of New York to preserve this critical program. We’ll see you in court.”

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso echoed Hochul’s sentiment, saying, “New York City is not Donald Trump’s fiefdom. In one short month, congestion pricing has delivered clear and measurable benefits for residents and visitors alike. Traffic is down, subway ridership is up, and businesses are seeing higher foot traffic. In the courts and in the streets, we will continue fighting – and winning – for congestion pricing and the well-being of New Yorkers. We got us.”