Governor Hochul is set to unveil her 2025 agenda in her upcoming State of the State address, and New Yorkers should prepare for disappointment. Hochul has a history of disregarding public opinion on issues such as crime, taxes, congestion pricing, and energy, and it is likely that her agenda will continue in the same vein.
While the state’s budget is close to $240 billion annually, Hochul is expected to propose new spending initiatives, such as youth mental health services and free school meals. However, these measures may not address the real concerns of voters.
One contentious issue is congestion pricing, which was opposed by a majority of New Yorkers in a recent poll. Despite its unpopularity, Hochul initially paused the initiative but later revived it after the November election.
Hochul’s green agenda is also causing concern, as she is expected to push for a new “cap and invest” program that will increase costs for consumers. This move could lead to higher prices for gasoline, home heating, and electricity, as oil companies pass on their increased costs.
Furthermore, Hochul has raised taxes in the past and may do so again this year, despite New York already having the highest state and local taxes in the nation. This contradicts her stated goal of making life more affordable for residents.
On criminal justice reform, Hochul is unlikely to address issues like cashless bail and Raise the Age, which have been blamed for an increase in crime since their implementation. This reluctance to challenge the status quo may be due to her unwillingness to confront the progressive elements in the Legislature.
While some voters may be dissatisfied with Hochul’s performance, upcoming elections will provide an opportunity for change. A recent poll found that a majority of New York voters prefer “someone else” for governor, indicating a potential shift in leadership next year.
The exodus of residents from New York to other states is also a cause for concern, with the state experiencing a decline in population. Hochul’s State of the State address is unlikely to address these issues, which may only further drive residents away.
Ultimately, it will be up to voters to decide the future direction of the state, and the upcoming elections will be crucial in determining whether Hochul remains in office or if a new leader emerges to address the pressing issues facing New York.
