President Donald Trump recently declared, “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!” in reference to the Trump administration’s efforts to block New York City’s congestion pricing plan. The plan would charge drivers entering certain areas of the city, with the aim of funding subway improvements. Critics of the toll, including the White House, argued it unfairly burdens working-class residents. Trump’s statement was shared by the official White House X account, accompanied by an image of him wearing a crown, sparking backlash online. Critics pointed out that the U.S. fought a revolution to avoid monarchy. Some Trump supporters, however, applauded the image.

New York officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul, vowed to fight the administration’s decision. They emphasized that the toll would improve first responder access and fund public transportation improvements. The program would charge vehicles entering Manhattan from 60th Street to the Financial District during weekday and weekend hours.

"CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!"
–President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/IMr4tq0sMB

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 19, 2025