The Greater New York Automobile Association, a leading advocacy group for car dealerships, will be hosting a fundraiser for Governor Kathy Hochul shortly after she paused the congestion pricing scheme for Manhattan. The event is set to take place at The Center for Automotive Education & Training in Queens, with suggested donations ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The group sees this as an opportunity to show support for Hochul’s leadership in the industry.
Hochul made the decision to indefinitely pause the tolling program, citing the current cost-of-living crisis faced by New Yorkers. The Greater New York Automobile Association has been vocal in its opposition to the congestion pricing plan, and the fundraiser for Hochul further solidifies their stance. The governor has a history of supporting the auto industry, with the GNYADA having donated $18,000 to her campaign in July 2023.
The congestion pricing plan involves different toll rates for vehicles during peak hours, with discounts for drivers using tolled tunnels to enter Manhattan. Certain vehicles, such as emergency vehicles and school buses, are exempt from the tolls. Since 2018, the governor has received over $22,000 from the Automobile Dealers of New York political action committee. Despite this support, Hochul’s representatives have not yet responded to inquiries regarding the fundraiser and her decision to pause congestion pricing.
The fundraiser for Hochul comes at a time when the automotive industry is seeking to engage with the governor directly and demonstrate their support for her leadership. With the current cost-of-living crisis impacting New Yorkers, Hochul’s decision to pause congestion pricing has been met with mixed reactions. However, the Greater New York Automobile Association remains steadfast in its opposition to the tolling program and has been a strong supporter of Hochul and the auto industry.
Hochul’s relationship with the automotive industry has been long-standing, with the GNYADA and other groups providing financial support to her campaign. The decision to pause congestion pricing has generated discussion and debate, with some questioning the timing of the move. As the fundraiser approaches, the focus will be on demonstrating collective support for Hochul and her leadership in the industry, despite differing opinions on the tolling program. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of transportation in New York City.
