Trump Kills NYC’s Costly Toll Scheme, Hochul Lashes Out

Commuters in New York City no longer have to pay steep congestion fees to enter Manhattan’s busiest areas after President Donald Trump’s administration shut down the controversial toll program. Gov. Kathy Hochul is now vowing to fight the decision in court, claiming the program was essential for funding public transit.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy informed Hochul of the decision, calling the tolls an unnecessary burden on working-class commuters and small businesses. He pointed out that drivers already pay taxes for road maintenance and should not be forced to hand over more money just to enter the city.

The congestion fee, which had been in place since early January, charged drivers $9 for access to Manhattan’s Central Business District. The plan sparked outrage from businesses and residents who rely on their vehicles for work, many of whom said it was yet another tax on middle-class Americans.

Trump celebrated the move on Truth Social, writing, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD… LONG LIVE THE KING!” Hochul responded with outrage, stating, “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.” She later announced that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority had filed a lawsuit to reinstate the tolls.

The Trump administration reversed a policy from former President Joe Biden, who had waived federal tolling restrictions to allow Hochul’s plan to move forward. Federal law typically prohibits tolls on highways funded by taxpayer dollars, and Trump’s team cited that rule in shutting down the program.

While Hochul pushes for legal action, the tolls are no longer in effect, providing relief for thousands of commuters who had been hit with the added costs of simply driving into Manhattan.

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