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Trump and Hochul Engage in ‘Constructive Dialogue’ During White House Meeting


According to the governor’s office, the two addressed topics such as the redevelopment of Penn Station, congestion pricing, tariffs, and energy policy.

On Friday, President Donald Trump and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul engaged in a constructive discussion in the Oval Office covering a variety of issues, as stated by Hochul’s office.

“Today, Governor Hochul and President Trump discussed a wide array of subjects, including the redevelopment of Penn Station, congestion pricing, tariffs, and energy policy,” stated Jerrel Harvey, Hochul’s spokesperson, in an email to NTD, the sister media of The Epoch Times. “While no formal agreements or conclusions were made, the conversation was beneficial, and we look forward to continuing the discussion in the weeks ahead.”

The day before, Trump publicly called on the governor to revive a natural gas pipeline project in upstate New York, accusing the state of delaying its progress for an extended period.

“If New York, Connecticut, and New England had their pipelines, families would save $2,300 just on heating alone — including air conditioning and other costs, leading to total savings of $5,000 per household,” Trump shared in a post on Truth Social. “All we need is a simple approval from New York. Every other state in New England, along with Connecticut, is in favor of this to help the environment and save substantial money. We only require the final green light from New York State, which the public supports. If not, we will pursue other authorities. New York State has delayed this project for many years, but we will not let that continue. We will utilize federal approval!”

The pipeline was designed to transport gas from Pennsylvania’s drilling fields directly to New York. The project, proposed by Williams Cos., was halted in 2020 due to opposition from state politicians and environmental activists.

“Williams … has ceased investment in the proposed Constitution project,” the company stated in a statement issued in 2020. “The risk-adjusted return prospects for this greenfield pipeline project have diminished significantly, making further development unviable.”

Hochul’s meeting coincides with the Trump administration’s directive for the state to cease the controversial toll for drivers entering Manhattan’s busiest areas, referred to as congestion pricing. The Federal Highway Administration has issued a March 21 deadline for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to stop charging the $9 toll for vehicles entering below 60th Street.

In defense of the program, Hochul is attempting to support it through a lawsuit against the Department of Transportation.

This visit marks Hochul’s second appearance at the White House with Trump, following their previous discussion on important issues regarding New York priorities last month.



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