‘Pissed off’, ‘spineless flip-flops’, ‘grateful’: how Democrats reacted to Hochul’s congestion pricing delay

Plus: a bill to import cheaper prescription drugs is on the table.

Good afternoon — it’s Wednesday, and National Ketchup Day.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024

TODAY’S CAPCON:

• Democrats in the Legislature and beyond had mixed reactions to Hochul’s announcement Wednesday to delay congestion pricing.

• They’re now discussing how they’ll respond — including potential legislation to usurp her.

• A bill that would allow New York to import cheaper prescription drugs from Canada is on the table.

🔨 Is Tomorrow a Session Day? Yes.

🌞 Tonight’s Weather: Albany: Mostly cloudy, rain likely, high 60s. New York City: Rain, around 70. (National Weather Service)

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Hochul speaking on congestion pricing last year. (N.Y. Governor’s Office)

🚘 Democrats mixed on Hochul’s congestion pricing delay

🛣️ Some members view Hochul’s decision as a mistake for the state’s environmental goals. Others see it as a much-needed reprieve.

Gov. Kathy HOCHUL is planning to pause the implementation of congestion pricing — a new toll that was scheduled to be charged starting in late June to drivers who enter the busiest parts of Manhattan.

“I have come to the decision that implementing the planned congestion pricing system risks too many unintended consequences for New Yorkers at this time,” Hochul said.

• Hochul said she’s directed the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to “indefinitely pause the program.”

That was a surprise — because lawmakers expect to end session this week — but not a total surprise.

Hochul has taken heat for the implementation of congestion pricing this year despite not being its original architect. That was former Gov. Andrew M. CUOMO, who’s since come out against its implementation.

• And before that it was former New York City Mayor Michael BLOOMBERG. 

"What is the point, because New Yorkers didn't mess up the streets of New York?” Whoopi Goldberg asked Hochul in March on national television show ‘The View.’

“We're in a crisis where people can walk backwards in heels faster than most trucks can get down the streets right now. This city is paralyzed,” Hochul responded.

🚗 So why is Hochul doing that? It depends who you ask.