Today, House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik and Representative Nick LaLota (R-NY) sent a letter to President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The letter commends their leadership in opposing Governor Kathy Hochul’s congestion pricing plan, which the lawmakers describe as a burdensome tax on New York workers and families.
The lawmakers expressed gratitude for the efforts of Trump and Duffy, stating, “We write to express my sincere gratitude for your leadership in holding Governor Hochul and New York State Democrats accountable for their ill-conceived commuter tax, known as congestion pricing. While the fight is not yet over to put this scheme to bed once and for all, just know the people of New York and New Jersey stand behind you.”
They criticized Governor Hochul’s approach, arguing that it forces commuters into an unsafe subway system. They noted, “The fact that Governor Hochul believes forcing commuters off the roads and into a subway system riddled with crime is a great idea is entirely out of touch with reality.” The lawmakers cited NYPD crime data showing an increase in felony assaults within the subway system.
Further criticism was directed at fare evasion costs impacting the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), with $700 million lost in 2024 due to turnstile jumping. The lawmakers stated that instead of addressing these issues, Governor Hochul seeks additional funds from taxpayers. They argued that this strategy is coercive rather than governance.
Stefanik and LaLota also claimed that congestion pricing unfairly targets suburban areas and low-income neighborhoods reliant on vehicles. They emphasized fiscal responsibility over what they termed as a “quick cash grab” by Governor Hochul.
In conclusion, they praised the current administration’s commitment to accountability and affordability: “This Administration’s commitment to holding our government accountable, enhancing affordability, and standing up for the hardworking American people will be remembered for generations to come.”
The full text of their letter can be accessed online.
