Staff Reports
New York City recently rolled out surge congestion pricing, just as the Trump administration was taking over from President Biden. In an attempt to squeeze more dollars from drivers and push them onto the subway, officials hoped this would go unnoticed, perhaps in the same way that they believe most New Yorkers want to ignore good ol’ Mayor Adams’ ever-larger collection of crime statistics. But surprise! Not everyone was clamoring to shove their daily commute into sweaty subway cars. In fact, nearly everyone opposed the plan, including humble commuters and even Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, who strategically decided to hold off on any implementation until after the 2024 election.
When the Trump administration swiftly put a stop to this madness, the State of New York reacted with typical drama, almost as if the sky were falling. To add salt to the wound, New York officials took the route of a lawsuit, proving that some folks still keep it classy even while clinging to the fragility of their plans. The State’s X account—formerly known as Twitter—decided to take a slightly cheeky approach in addressing the lawsuit, proclaiming they were going to court in a voice more fitting for a teenager’s TikTok than a government account. The message was as cringe-worthy as it was ironic, especially when considering that they are supposedly speaking for a city that overwhelmingly disapproves of this congestion pricing prototype.
CONGESTION PRICING TERMINATED??!!
wow that was quick! Sean Duffy writes a letter to Kathy Hochul stating that the Trump administration will be pulling approval the pilot program
New York City residents thank Doanld Trump I'm sure, it's amazing how many wins they are giving… pic.twitter.com/iSrlsXl1Rn
— Sarah Sansoni (@sarahsansoni) February 19, 2025
The reference to a “king” due to Trump’s actions rang particularly hollow, especially when considering that the congestion pricing policy was, in fact, a product of the previous administration’s design. Yet, Democrats who were supposed to be champions of a populist ethos decided that a legal fit was worth their while instead of acknowledging the will of the people—a classic case of wanting it both ways. A Siena College poll showed that a whopping 51% of registered voters in New York State opposed the plan. And it should be noted that opposition was just as strong among Democrats, who seem to think it’s fine to completely ignore the voters when it suits their agenda.
In a remarkable twist of fate, New Jersey’s Governor Phil Murphy stepped up to thank Trump and his team for halting the congestion pricing program. Apparently, Phil understands that heavy taxes on New Yorkers aren’t exactly generous gifts to the hard-working people of New Jersey. Murphy recognized the real problem at hand—current policies not only fill the coffers of the MTA but also burden New Jersey commuters, who don’t appreciate being nickeled and dimed while supporting inept transit systems.
While these state officials were busy spewing rhetoric reminiscent of a melodrama, citizens were left scratching their heads, wondering why their governor was focusing energy on a Twitter spat instead of addressing more pressing issues. Meanwhile, Hochul made a fleeting reference to antisemitic protests in Brooklyn—an issue far more destructive and concerning than congestion pricing. If only her administration could demonstrate actual leadership by tackling crime and public safety with as much fervor as they approach courtroom theatrics.
In the grand scheme of things, this episode merely highlights the absurdity within liberal governance. As Trump’s administration puts the brakes on a cash grab targeting everyday drivers, a clear takeaway emerges: the people of New York, regardless of their party affiliation, are fed up with piggybacking on unpopular policies masquerading as public transportation improvements. Yet, Democrats seem more inclined to complain about perceived royal decrees than to actually listen to the constituents they allegedly serve.
