Empire State Today

NYGOP Chair Ed Cox has expressed his disapproval of Governor Kathy Hochul's recent decision to implement congestion pricing in New York City. According to Cox, this move represents a "blatant bait-and-switch on hardworking New Yorkers." He pointed out that just months ago, Governor Hochul had paused the plan, which he believes was an attempt to avoid political backlash during an election year. Now that the election is over, Cox claims she is moving forward with what he describes as an additional tax burden on New Yorkers.

"Governor Hochul’s sudden move to implement congestion pricing in New York City is a blatant bait-and-switch on hardworking New Yorkers," said Cox. He further criticized the timing of her decision, suggesting it was politically motivated: "Just months ago, she hit the brakes on this misguided plan — clearly hoping to avoid political backlash during an election year. But now, with the election behind her, she’s racing to burden New Yorkers with yet another tax."

The statement comes ahead of President Trump's inauguration and highlights ongoing tensions regarding fiscal policies affecting city residents.