Trump Kills NYC Congestion Pricing, Declares Himself ‘King’ in Victory Speech

 Trump Kills NYC Congestion Pricing, Declares Himself ‘King’ in Victory Speech

In a dramatic policy reversal that has sent shockwaves through New York City’s transportation and political landscape, the Trump administration has rescinded federal approval for the city's congestion pricing program. This initiative, designed to reduce traffic congestion in Manhattan and fund public transit improvements, had already shown promising results. However, its abrupt termination has ignited a fierce battle over urban infrastructure, executive authority, and state autonomy.

The Fall of Congestion Pricing: A Controversial Decision

New York City's congestion pricing plan, which went into effect on January 5, 2025, imposed a $9 toll on vehicles entering Manhattan's central business district during peak hours. The policy aimed to cut traffic, curb emissions, and generate revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Early data suggested it was working—traffic had dropped by 9%, and crashes were on the decline.

However, the U.S. Department of Transportation, under Secretary Sean Duffy, revoked federal approval, arguing that the program placed an unfair financial burden on working-class drivers and small businesses. Duffy stated, “New York State’s congestion pricing plan is a slap in the face to working-class Americans and small business owners.” He further criticized the lack of toll-free alternatives for drivers who do not use the city's transit system. (Reuters)

Trump’s Bold Declaration Sparks Uproar

President Donald J. Trump, never one to shy away from controversy, took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to celebrate the move, proclaiming, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!”

This statement—where he referred to himself as 'the king'—sent political and constitutional experts into a frenzy, reviving discussions about the Founding Fathers’ rejection of monarchy. Governor Kathy Hochul responded with sharp criticism, stating, “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king.” Hochul, a staunch supporter of the congestion pricing plan, vowed to take legal action against the administration to reinstate the toll system. (Time)

Legal Battles and Economic Fallout

The MTA wasted no time in responding, immediately filing a lawsuit to reinstate the program. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber defended the initiative, emphasizing its early success in reducing congestion and boosting transit revenue. He noted, “Traffic was down 9% in January, with 1.2 million fewer vehicles entering the central business district.” (ABC7 NY)

The decision has drawn mixed reactions. Small business owners who faced mounting toll expenses welcomed the reversal, arguing that it lifted a financial burden on them. Paul Belli, a Brooklyn-based plumber, stated that he had already spent thousands on tolls and called the reversal “a relief for businesses like mine.” However, environmental advocates and urban planners argue that congestion pricing was a crucial step toward reducing pollution and investing in a crumbling public transit system. (The Sun)

State vs. Federal Power: A Brewing Constitutional Clash

Beyond transportation policy, the decision has reignited debates over federal intervention in state affairs. Governor Hochul’s declaration that “New York hasn't labored under a king in over 200 years” underscores a broader battle over state sovereignty. Legal scholars predict a prolonged fight, with national implications for urban policy and governance.

With legal battles on the horizon, the fate of congestion pricing remains uncertain. The outcome will not only determine New York City's ability to manage traffic but also set a precedent for cities nationwide grappling with congestion and environmental challenges.

As New York fights to reinstate the plan, one thing is clear: the battle over congestion pricing is far from over.