On February 19, 2025, former President Donald Trump made headlines by declaring himself "king" following his administration's decision to revoke federal approval for New York City's congestion pricing initiative. This program, introduced in January 2025, aimed to alleviate traffic congestion in Manhattan by imposing tolls on vehicles entering the central business district. Trump's proclamation on social media, stating "CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD. Manhattan, and all of New York is SAVED. LONG LIVE THE KING!" signaled a bold assertion of authority that many interpreted as an attempt to position himself above the law. The announcement was accompanied by a surreal image shared by the White House, depicting Trump wearing a crown, further emphasizing his self-styled royal persona.

This declaration follows a pattern of rhetoric from Trump that suggests an authoritarian approach to governance. Just days prior, he had made a controversial statement implying that a president could bypass laws if deemed necessary for the nation's welfare, reminiscent of historical despots. Critics quickly condemned this viewpoint as dangerous and indicative of a broader trend towards undermining democratic norms. Trump's supporters, however, celebrated his boldness, creating and circulating images of him adorned with royal attire. This dichotomy illustrates the polarized reactions to Trump's rhetoric and actions, as he continues to test the limits of executive power during his second term.

The backlash from New York officials was swift and severe. Governor Kathy Hochul firmly rejected Trump's self-proclaimed kingship, asserting that New York has not been ruled by a king in over 250 years. She emphasized the importance of public transit for the state's economy and vowed to fight against any federal overreach into state matters. Hochul's response reflects a growing concern among state leaders about the implications of Trump's actions on local governance and public policy. Other officials echoed her sentiments, reinforcing their commitment to uphold constitutional principles and resist any attempts to centralize power in the executive branch.

In addition to the political ramifications, Trump's move to eliminate congestion pricing raises significant questions about funding for New York's aging public transportation system. The tolls were designed to generate revenue for essential upgrades and maintenance, which are critical for serving millions of daily commuters. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has already initiated legal action against the federal government in response to this decision, arguing that it undermines state law and disrupts planned improvements. As tensions escalate between state and federal authorities, the situation highlights broader issues regarding governance, accountability, and the balance of power within the American political system.