Brace for disappointment as Gov. Hochul unveils her State of the State

Prepare for disappointment as Governor Hochul unveils her 2025 agenda in her State of the State address on Tuesday.

Given Hochul’s history of disregarding public opinion on issues like crime, taxes, congestion pricing, and energy, it’s likely that her plans for this year will continue in the same vein, especially with early leaks of her agenda.

While the state’s annual spending is around $240 billion, she may propose new expenditures that sound good on the surface (such as youth mental health services and free school meals), but will likely overlook the true desires of the voters.

For example, take congestion pricing. Recent polls show that New Yorkers overwhelmingly oppose it, yet Hochul is expected to push forward with the plan despite its unpopularity.

Her environmental agenda is also causing significant financial strain, yet she is expected to introduce a new program that will increase costs for consumers. This move will likely result in higher prices for gas, heating, electricity, etc., as oil companies pass on their additional costs.

Despite New York already having the highest state and local taxes in the nation, Hochul has not made any efforts to reduce them. In fact, she has raised taxes further and may do so again this year, all while claiming to make life more “affordable.”

Furthermore, Hochul has failed to address the state’s flawed criminal-justice reforms, which have contributed to a rise in crime since their implementation five years ago.

It seems that Hochul is more concerned with appeasing progressive lawmakers and special interest groups than actually improving the quality of life in New York.

A governor truly committed to bettering New York would focus on fixing the state’s crime laws and supporting public charter schools, which have shown success compared to traditional public schools. However, Hochul appears unwilling to challenge the opposition from key legislative figures.

Given Hochul’s low approval ratings and the state’s declining population, it’s clear that many New Yorkers are dissatisfied with her leadership. The upcoming State of the State address may only further drive residents to seek alternatives.

Those who remain in New York will have the opportunity to express their discontent by electing a new governor next year.