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New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently spoke about a call she had with President-elect Donald Trump, where she emphasized the need for cooperation between the state and the incoming administration. The discussion, which took place last Thursday, focused on areas where New York depends on federal funding, such as infrastructure projects. Hochul, in a post-election appearance in Puerto Rico, described the conversation as “cordial,” noting that she’s always willing to work with anyone, regardless of political affiliation. She acknowledged that areas like infrastructure—where the state relies on federal dollars—are vital, and Trump seemed open to working together on shared priorities.
New York has several major infrastructure initiatives that rely on federal support. One of the most notable is the Micron semiconductor plant near Syracuse, which could bring thousands of jobs to the state. While some Republican leaders, like Speaker Mike Johnson, have questioned the future of the CHIPS and Science Act, which funds the plant, Hochul remains hopeful that bipartisan support will ensure its continuation. Another major project on her radar is the expansion of the Second Avenue Subway in Manhattan, along with upgrades to Penn Station, the busiest transit hub in the country. The latter project is projected to cost up to $17 billion, and Hochul has called it essential for the city’s future.
However, while there are areas of potential collaboration, the relationship between Hochul and Trump is far from harmonious. The governor has been vocal about her opposition to many of Trump’s policies, especially in regard to abortion rights, civil liberties, and immigration. After Trump’s election win, she and Attorney General Letitia James vowed to fight any attempts to undermine the rights of New Yorkers. Hochul has also voiced her opposition to Trump’s stance on congestion pricing, a controversial plan to impose tolls on vehicles entering Manhattan. Though Hochul had once pushed for the measure, she shelved it earlier this year, citing public opposition and concerns about its impact on working-class New Yorkers.
Despite the tensions, Hochul has made it clear that she is ready to work with the incoming administration when it comes to issues that benefit the people of New York. However, it’s clear that she will continue to push back against policies that she believes are harmful to the state’s values and the rights of its residents. The governor’s call to Trump may have been a step toward cooperation, but it’s unlikely to signal a shift in her commitment to protecting New Yorkers’ rights and interests.