President Donald Trump hosted Governor Kathy Hochul for a high-stakes meeting in the Oval Office, just days after his administration revoked federal approval for New York City’s congestion pricing program.
The meeting, which lasted over an hour, covered several hot-button issues, including immigration enforcement, infrastructure, economic development, and clean energy initiatives like offshore wind and nuclear power.
While neither side offered detailed comments about their private conversation, the fallout from the meeting has fueled ongoing tensions between the federal government and New York officials.
Trump Blocks NYC Congestion Pricing: What Happens Next?
In a bold move, President Trump fulfilled a promise to dismantle New York City’s congestion pricing program, which had required drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street to pay:
- $9 tolls during peak hours
- Reduced tolls overnight
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and Governor Hochul were quick to defend the program, which had shown early signs of success:
- Reduced congestion in Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone
- Increased subway and bus ridership
- Improved school bus punctuality
- A surge in Broadway ticket sales and local business foot traffic
- A 10% rise in yellow cab trips
“Since this first-in-the-nation program took effect last month, congestion has dropped dramatically, and commuters are getting to work faster than ever,” said Gov. Hochul.
New York Responds With a Lawsuit
Within minutes of the Trump administration’s decision to revoke approval, New York State filed a lawsuit challenging the move. The MTA and state officials argue that the congestion pricing program is essential for reducing traffic, promoting public transportation, and cutting emissions in one of the country’s busiest urban centers.
Despite the setback, Governor Hochul and the MTA have vowed to continue collecting tolls while the case plays out in federal court.
Trump Administration Sues New York Over Immigration Enforcement
The feud between New York and the federal government didn’t stop at congestion pricing. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched a lawsuit against New York State, alleging that its immigration policies prioritize undocumented immigrants over American citizens.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated:
“We are taking steps to protect Americans. New York has chosen to prioritize illegal aliens over American citizens.”
In response, New York Attorney General Letitia James defended the state’s position:
“Our state laws, including the Green Light law, protect the rights of all New Yorkers and keep our communities safe. I am prepared to defend our laws, just as I always have.”
Mayor Eric Adams: Quid Pro Quo Allegations Surface
Adding more fuel to the fire, the DOJ recently filed to drop federal corruption charges against Mayor Eric Adams. This move has raised suspicions that the dismissal could be connected to his cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
However, Mayor Adams has firmly denied any wrongdoing or involvement in a quid pro quo deal with the Trump administration.
“I have nothing to apologize for. These allegations are baseless,” said Adams in a statement.
Key Issues Discussed During Trump-Hochul Meeting
- Congestion Pricing: Hochul defended the success of the program amid federal opposition.
- Immigration Enforcement: A point of contention as the Trump administration pursues legal action against New York’s sanctuary policies.
- Energy Initiatives: Discussions included expanding offshore wind and nuclear energy to boost clean energy infrastructure.
- Infrastructure & Economic Development: Plans for job creation and boosting New York’s economy were also reportedly on the agenda.
