Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on CBS’ Face the Nation on Sunday, where she addressed tensions between Democratic governors and former President Donald Trump’s administration. She criticized what she described as federal overreach and reaffirmed her commitment to defending state policies, particularly on congestion pricing and civil rights issues.
Hochul expressed frustration over Trump’s decision to block New York’s congestion pricing plan, calling it an abuse of power. “With a tweet, he claims that he is the king and therefore he has the power to destroy it,” Hochul said. She emphasized that New York alone should determine its transportation policies, pushing back against both Trump and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, who also opposes the tolling measure.
Beyond congestion pricing, Hochul warned that Trump is attempting to pressure governors into compliance with his agenda by threatening to withhold federal funds. She cited recent disputes over transgender athlete policies and FEMA funding as examples of what she called a coordinated effort to “flood the zone” and distract from substantive governance. “We’re not going to sit idly by and let our rights be attacked,” Hochul stated, pledging to stand firm alongside other Democratic governors.
The governor also weighed in on New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ legal troubles, as Trump’s Justice Department seeks to dismiss corruption charges against him. While Hochul said she did not discuss the case with Trump during a recent visit to Washington, she expressed concern over the perception that the administration is interfering in the city’s operations. She defended her decision not to remove Adams from office, saying that while she holds the power to do so, she believes voters should have the final say in upcoming elections.
Hochul vowed to remain a “firewall” against federal encroachment on state policies. “They’re trying to create chaos, but we have to be smart as Democrats and as leaders,” she said, calling for discipline and unity among state officials.
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