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The Trump administration has sparked a new controversy by canceling the congestion pricing program in New York, prompting immediate reactions from both its supporters and opponents.
With a defiant attitude, the U.S. president proclaimed himself "king" after the decision, which has sparked intense debate about the extent of his power and the impact of his administration on state and federal policies.
"THE TOLL FOR CONGESTION HAS BEEN ELIMINATED. Manhattan, and all of New York, is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!", Trump wrote on Truth Social.
This message was replicated by the official White House account on X, which accompanied the statement with an edited image from Time magazine, featuring the president crowned with the caption "Long live the king."
The deputy chief of staff at the White House, Taylor Budowich, also shared an image generated by artificial intelligence in which Trump appears wearing a crown and a royal cape, reinforcing the narrative that seeks to exalt the president's role as an unquestionable leader.
The cancellation of the toll and its implications
"Donald Trump is not a 'king' and we will not allow him to use New Yorkers like roadkill in his revenge tour. We will see him in court.", wrote New York Governor Kathy Hochul on X.
"We are a nation of laws, not governed by a king", he wrote in another post.
The elimination of the congestion toll, which had been approved during the previous administration, marks a turning point in urban and transportation policies in New York, as warned by The New York Times.
The program aimed to reduce traffic in Manhattan and generate revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in order to enhance subway and bus service.
Accusations of presidential overreach
Trump's announcement also adds to the growing concerns about his interpretation of executive power.
In recent days, he has stated that "those who save their country do not violate any law", a declaration that has been interpreted by his critics as a sign that he sees himself above the U.S. judicial system.
Additionally, he has issued an order to consolidate power and take regulatory control of the independent agencies created by Congress, eliminating the possibility of them disagreeing with his administration.
The New York City Comptroller, Brad Lander, described the decision as "yet another instance of federal overreach by the Trump administration."
The elimination of the toll adds to a long list of executive decisions by Trump that have polarized public opinion and reinforced his image as a leader determined to challenge the traditional power structures in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Congestion Toll Cancellation in New York and Trump's Reaction
What measure did Donald Trump take regarding the congestion tax in New York?
Donald Trump canceled the congestion pricing program in New York. This measure, which had been implemented in the previous administration, aimed to reduce traffic in Manhattan and generate revenue to improve public transportation. Its elimination has sparked intense controversy and diverse reactions among politicians and citizens.
What was the reaction of the White House to Trump's statement about being "king"?
The White House responded to Trump's statement on X, accompanied by an edited image from Time magazine showing him crowned. This action reinforces the narrative aimed at elevating his leadership but has also sparked criticism and a debate about the limits of his presidential power.
How has New York Governor Kathy Hochul responded to the cancellation of the congestion toll?
Governor Kathy Hochul has strongly criticized the measure and pointed out that "Trump is not a 'king'." Additionally, she stated that she will take the case to court, asserting that the United States is a country governed by laws and not by a monarch.
What are the implications of eliminating the congestion toll for New York?
The elimination of the congestion toll could increase traffic in Manhattan and reduce revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). This could negatively impact funding meant to improve subway and bus services, affecting the mobility and quality of life for New Yorkers.
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