Praying for Marc Molinaro: How the Federal Transit Administration Chief Blocked Hochul’s Midtown Toll Plan

It’s encouraging to see Governor Hochul collaborating with President Trump for New York, but her request for his backing on her congestion pricing plan appears to be falling flat — which is positive news.

Hochul’s new toll on drivers in Midtown is significantly impacting the region — and it seems that Trump is aware of the situation.

The governor and the president had two discussions last week. According to sources, he may decide this week on whether to dismantle the Midtown tax.

However, the president has already indicated he might do just that — eliminate it: Just last week, he reportedly designated ex-Rep. Marc Molinaro, a staunch opponent of congestion pricing, to lead the Federal Transit Administration.

Moreover, back in November, Trump told The Post, “I have great respect for the governor of New York… But I fundamentally disagree with the decision regarding the congestion tax.”

As Nicole Gelinas recently pointed out, the MTA did not submit a comprehensive environmental impact statement to evaluate the program’s effects beyond Midtown, so “Trump’s DOT could retroactively revoke the federal approval of the toll.”

In his role at the FTA, Molinaro would be ideally positioned to influence this decision.

Molinaro could also push for reforms to reduce the MTA’s exorbitant infrastructure and operating costs. This could save significant amounts for New Yorkers (and possibly even non-New York taxpayers).

It’s important to note that the agency is relying on FTA funds to support part of its $68.4 billion five-year capital plan; in 2023, it received a $3.4 billion FTA grant to extend the Second Avenue Subway.

Having Molinaro in such a significant position — with the backing of the federal government — could be a tremendous advantage for New York.

This could happen even if it contradicts the agenda of local politicians like Hochul.