Donald Trump Declares Himself “King” After Blocking Manhattan Congestion Pricing

In a shocking declaration, Donald Trump announced himself as “king” on Truth Social, stating “CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD” and “LONG LIVE THE KING!”. This proclamation comes after his administration’s efforts to block the congestion pricing initiative in Manhattan, intended to fund the city’s deteriorating mass transit system.

The White House‘s X account shared Trump’s statement alongside a satirical Time magazine cover featuring Trump adorned with a crown and the phrase “long live the king.” Additionally, White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich shared an AI-generated image of Trump in a crown and regal cape.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy articulated Trump’s opposition to the congestion pricing initiative in a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Duffy described the program as “backwards and unfair“ and a “slap in the face to working-class Americans and small business owners.”

However, Hochul defended the program, stating that public transit is “the lifeblood of New York City” and critical to its economic future. She also noted that since the program’s implementation, vehicle congestion has “dropped dramatically” and commuters are getting to work faster.

Hochul criticized Trump’s remarks, saying “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king… We’ll see you in court.” This response comes after Trump’s assertion that “he who saves his Country does not violate any Law,” which was echoed by White House X accounts.