New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) on Thursday pushed back against President Trump after the White House rescinded approval of Manhattan’s congestion pricing plan.
“Since this first-in-the-nation program took effect last month, congestion has dropped dramatically and commuters are getting to work faster than ever. Broadway shows are selling out and foot traffic to local businesses is spiking,” Hochul said in a statement posted to the social platform X.
“We’ll see you in court,” she added, stating the Metropolitan Transportation Authority initiated legal proceedings in the Southern District of New York.
On Wednesday, the president said New York was “saved” after the administration announced it would walk back on the pricing plan.
“CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED.” Trump said on his Truth Social platform. “LONG LIVE THE KING!”
Hochul clapped back, stating that “we are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.”
“School buses are getting kids to class on time, and yellow cab trips increased by 10 percent. Transit ridership is up, drivers are having a better experience, and support for this program is growing every day,” the governor wrote.
Wednesday’s action by the Trump administration takes back a $9 toll for drivers coming into a portion of Manhattan, which New York City and Empire State officials sought to curb traffic and lower air pollution. Those against the plan said it weighed on consumers too much.
“New York State’s congestion pricing plan is a slap in the face to working class Americans and small business owners,” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a previous statement. “Every American should be able to access New York City regardless of their economic means. It shouldn’t be reserved for an elite few.”
The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment.
