President Donald Trump has unveiled a plan to pressure New York to eliminate congestion pricing in Manhattan and warned of federal scrutiny over the state’s sanctuary city policies. Speaking to the New York Post, Trump said the Department of Transportation may withhold funding or reopen environmental reviews to block the controversial toll.
The congestion pricing scheme, which charges vehicles $9 during peak hours south of 60th Street, was implemented to fund public transit improvements. Trump criticized it as destructive to business and traffic flow, arguing it only worsens New York City’s problems. He also pledged to remove bike lanes, citing safety concerns over speeding electric bikes.
Trump expressed hope for an agreement with Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, with whom he has had multiple discussions. However, he warned that federal grants, including part of $36 billion in transportation funding, could be jeopardized if the state maintains the toll system.
Additionally, Trump’s administration is targeting New York’s sanctuary city policies. He warned that legal action is likely, emphasizing that such laws protect criminals rather than residents. The announcement follows a recent Department of Justice lawsuit against Illinois and Chicago for obstructing immigration enforcement.