A leading New York-based advocacy group for car dealerships will be hosting a fundraiser for Gov. Kathy Hochul – mere days after she indefinitely paused the controversial congestion pricing scheme for part of Manhattan.
The Greater New York Automobile Association is hosting the Hochul fundraiser Tuesday at The Center for Automotive Education & Training in Queens.
The group is asking for suggested donations of $5,000 to $10,000, according to a flier for the event.
“Governor Hochul has been a staunch supporter of our industry, and this reception provides an excellent opportunity to engage with her directly and show our collective support for her continued leadership,” says the flier dated May 28 announcing the event.
Hochul on Wednesday shockingly slammed the brakes on the tolling program, saying she’s pausing it “indefinitely” because it’s not the right time with New Yorkers facing a cost-of-living crisis.
The GNYADA opposes the congestion pricing toll plan.
Hochul has been a longtime benefactor of auto dealers.
The GNYADA donated $18,000 to Hochul’s campaign in July 2023, according to the Washington Examiner, which first reported the planned fundraiser.
What to know about congestion pricing
- These rates apply during peak hours, 5 am-9 pm weekdays, 9 am – 9 pm weekends. During other times, tolls are lowers to $2.75 for passenger vehicles, $6 for small trucks, $9 for large trucks, and $1.75 for motorcycles. Other rates remain the same.
- Emergency vehicles, school buses, specialized government vehicles and vehicles carrying people with disabilities are exempt.
- Drivers crossing into Manhattan using a tolled tunnel get a $5 discount.
The governor has also received at least another $22,865 since 2018 from the Automobile Dealers of New York political action committee, according to fundraising records.
Reps for Hochul did not immediately return messages.
