Judge Blocks Trump’s Move to End NYC Congestion Pricing, Keeps Tolls Alive

In a dramatic courtroom twist, a federal judge has slammed the brakes on the Trump administration’s bid to dismantle New York City’s congestion pricing program. On Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Lewis Liman issued a temporary restraining order, keeping the $9 tolls for drivers entering Manhattan south of 60th Street during peak hours alive through at least June 9. The ruling also blocks Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy from pulling federal funding as punishment for the city’s defiance.

The program, which kicked off in January, uses electronic license plate readers to charge most drivers, aiming to ease Manhattan’s gridlock and fund mass transit upgrades. City officials report a solid win: between January and March, about 5.8 million fewer cars clogged the congestion zone—a drop of 8% to 13%. Comptroller Brad Lander hailed the initiative, noting fewer car crashes, less noise, and smoother rides for buses and taxis, giving a boost to businesses and tourism.

The Trump administration, however, isn’t backing down. A Department of Transportation spokesperson called the ruling a mere pause, not a defeat, and vowed to fight what they dubbed 'Hochul’s illegal tolls' in court, claiming they burden working-class Americans. This follows former President Trump’s February social media victory lap, where he proclaimed, 'CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD,' crowning himself the savior of New York.

For now, the tolls stand, and the battle over Manhattan’s streets rolls on, with the city defending its vision for a less chaotic urban core.