New York Governor Kathy Hochul has publicly defended congestion pricing in Manhattan after former President Donald Trump withdrew federal support for the program. During a private Oval Office meeting, Hochul urged Trump to reconsider his stance, citing reduced traffic and improved air quality since the $9 tolls began in January. However, she acknowledged the dispute will likely escalate to courts, stating:
No one else should second-guess New York’s policies—this is about our laws and our state’s future.
The Trump administration halted the initiative last week, claiming federal authority over the program. Critics, including New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, argue the tolls unfairly burden commuters. Hochul countered sharply: New Jersey doesn’t dictate New York’s solutions.
Early data reveals modest traffic reductions since the policy launched:
- Emergency response times improved by 12%
- Midtown Manhattan air pollution dropped 8%
- Transit revenue reached $45 million in Q1 2024
Trump’s personal stake adds complexity—his Fifth Avenue properties lie within the toll zone. The former president celebrated the policy’s suspension on Truth Social, calling it a win for common sense.
Legal experts predict a protracted court battle over states’ rights versus federal oversight. Hochul emphasized New York’s preparedness: We’ll fight to keep congestion pricing—and we’ll win. Meanwhile, tensions flared over the Justice Department’s intervention in Mayor Eric Adams’ corruption case, which Hochul labeled a political hostage situation.
As the legal drama unfolds, commuters brace for uncertainty. Transit officials warn paused tolls could delay subway upgrades and bus lane expansions. For now, all eyes remain on federal courts to determine the fate of America’s first major congestion pricing system.