In a surprising post on social media, former President Donald Trump referred to himself as “King” while declaring that New York City’s controversial congestion pricing program was “dead.”
His announcement followed a significant move by his administration to block the program, which has been unpopular with many New Yorkers.
Trump, who hails from New York, posted on Truth Social: “Congestion pricing is dead. Manhattan, and all of New York, is saved.
Long Live The King!” His message was shared by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich, accompanied by an image of Trump in royal attire.
This move has since sparked widespread debate, with some questioning his motives and others mocking the declaration.
Ana Navarro and Joy Behar Weigh In on Trump’s ‘King’ Post
On Thursday’s episode of The View, the panelists discussed Trump’s social media stunt.
Ana Navarro, a vocal anti-Trump commentator, speculated that the former president was trolling his opposition.
She argued that the monarch reference was a diversion meant to distract the media and public from more serious issues, like cuts to government programs or rising costs of living.
Navarro suggested that by calling himself “King,” Trump was redirecting attention from pressing topics, including the impact of inflation and the loss of benefits for 9/11 survivors.
The panel’s discussion also included Joy Behar, who shifted the focus to Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine.
Behar criticized Collins for her perceived lack of action in challenging Trump, urging her to “step up and do your job.”
Trump’s Imagery and Connection to Napoleon Bonaparte
Trump’s self-proclaimed “King” persona also seemed to echo the language of historical figures, including Napoleon Bonaparte.
The former president previously posted a message resembling Napoleon’s famous quote, “He who saves his country does not violate any law,” a sentiment many took as a hint at his controversial approach to executive power.
Trump’s image was not limited to social media posts. His team also released a fake cover of Time magazine that showcased him wearing a crown, further fueling the kingly narrative.
His rhetoric, along with these visual cues, has left many speculating about his desire to expand the powers of the presidency, especially given the legal challenges surrounding him.
Trump’s Move to Block NYC’s Congestion Pricing
At the heart of the recent drama is Trump’s effort to halt New York City’s congestion pricing plan, a system that imposes a toll on vehicles entering Manhattan south of Central Park.
The program was intended to reduce traffic and fund improvements to the city’s deteriorating public transit system.
Trump has long been opposed to the plan, calling it a regressive tax that would harm the city’s recovery.
The Trump administration’s intervention in the issue, which led to the cancellation of federal approval for the program, has sparked legal battles.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul vowed to take the matter to court, emphasizing that the city’s legal fight would continue, and that the tolls would remain in place for the time being.
Legal and Political Backlash Against Trump’s Actions
New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has filed its own lawsuit to preserve the congestion pricing system, arguing that the federal government’s reversal undermines years of planning and approvals.
Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Governor Hochul remains steadfast in her support of the program, highlighting positive impacts like reduced congestion, improved transit efficiency, and increased foot traffic to local businesses.
A Divisive Program with Strong Opinions on Both Sides
The congestion pricing plan has been met with mixed reactions.
While environmental advocates and transit supporters tout the benefits, including reduced pollution and improved road safety, many New Yorkers oppose the tolls, particularly those in suburban areas who feel unfairly targeted by the system.
Even New Jersey’s Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat, fought the plan in court, urging Trump to intervene.
As the legal and political drama unfolds, Trump’s comments and actions continue to capture attention.
Whether his self-proclaimed “king” status is a humorous distraction or a sign of deeper political maneuvering remains to be seen.
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