Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap Up 2/21/25

Congestion Pricing in NYS is Dead – Thanks to President Trump

New Yorkers can breathe a sigh of relief. The disastrous congestion pricing scheme is officially dead, thanks to President Donald J. Trump and his administration. In a major victory for working-class families and small businesses, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy formally withdrew federal approval for this deeply unpopular program, calling it “a slap in the face to working-class Americans and small business owners.”

Governor Kathy Hochul and her allies pushed congestion pricing as a revenue grab disguised as environmental policy, but the reality was simple: it was an unfair tax on hardworking New Yorkers who rely on their vehicles to commute, provide for their families, and contribute to the economy. Not to mention, it also forced those on a fixed income to take the crime-ridden subways, with the risks of being pushed on the tracks or assaulted at all-time highs.

As Secretary Duffy rightfully stated, “Every American should be able to access New York City regardless of their economic means. It shouldn’t be reserved for an elite few.” We commend President Trump and his administration for standing up for everyday New Yorkers and stopping yet another reckless tax-and-spend policy from the left. You can read our full press release here.

Join Us for the Conservative Party’s Legislative Reception

Mark your calendars! On March 19, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, the New York State Conservative Party will host our annual Legislative Reception at the prestigious Fort Orange Club in Albany, NY. This year, we are proud to honor two outstanding leaders in our movement: Schenectady County Conservative Party Chairman Jim Barrett and Suffolk County Executive Committee member Brett Robinson. Both of these men have demonstrated unwavering dedication to conservative principles and grassroots activism, making them deserving recipients of the esteemed J. Daniel Mahoney Award.

This event is a part of our annual efforts to bring together leaders, activists, and supporters who are committed to fighting for conservative values in New York. More information will be released in the coming days, but we encourage all to make plans to attend. This is an excellent opportunity to celebrate our shared values, discuss the pressing issues facing our state, and recognize those who have gone above and beyond in service to the conservative cause.

Correction Officers Strike – Governor Hochul Must Act Now

Across New York State, Correction Officers are walking off the job in protest of dangerous and deteriorating working conditions. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to maintain order and protect the public, yet Governor Kathy Hochul’s policies such as the HALT Act, have left them vulnerable, unsupported, and ignored.

Instead of addressing the root cause of the crisis, rising violence, understaffing, and the reckless policies that have emboldened criminals, Hochul’s response has been nothing short of insulting; calling in the National Guard rather than fixing the broken system. This is not a solution, it’s a band-aid that does nothing to protect the hardworking officers who are being assaulted, overworked, and abandoned by the state government.

The New York State Conservative Party, myself, and our endorsed legislators stand firmly with our Correction Officers. They deserve respect, protection, and leadership that prioritizes their safety. Governor Hochul must stop appeasing radical activists and start addressing the legitimate concerns of our law enforcement community. Until then, the Conservative Party will continue to fight for policies that put our officers first and restore order to New York’s correctional facilities.

It’s time for Governor Hochul to listen, or face the consequences of ignoring those who keep our state safe.