Hochul Halts Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan, FBI Raids Home of Former Aide

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered an indefinite pause on the congestion pricing program set to launch in June, citing concerns. Meanwhile, the FBI raided the home of a former aide to Hochul, Linda Sun.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an "indefinite pause" to the controversial congestion pricing program, which was slated to launch on June 30. The move comes amid heightened scrutiny following an FBI raid on the Long Island home of Linda Sun, a former aide to Hochul.

The FBI conducted a court-authorized law enforcement operation at the five-bedroom, $3.5 million residence of Sun in Manhasset. Federal agents searched the premises, but did not disclose the reasons for the raid.

Hochul Halts Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan, FBI Raids Home of Former Aide

Neither Sun, 40, nor her husband, Chris Hu, 41, have been accused of any wrongdoing, and no arrests were made. However, a judge approved the search warrant, suggesting there may be some indicia of criminal activity.

The raid is particularly noteworthy due to Sun's previous role as Hochul's deputy chief of staff, where she handled business development, Asian American affairs, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Hochul Halts Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan, FBI Raids Home of Former Aide

Sun left the executive chamber after 15 months and joined the New York State Department of Labor. She later left public service after allegedly being fired following "evidence of misconduct," according to a source familiar with the matter.

The alleged misconduct has been referred to law enforcement, and Sun's husband operates a liquor store in Queens. Efforts to reach the couple have been unsuccessful.

Hochul Halts Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan, FBI Raids Home of Former Aide

Meanwhile, Hochul has directed the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to pause the congestion pricing program indefinitely. The program, which would impose tolls on vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street during certain hours, was met with strong opposition from drivers and businesses.

Critics argued that the plan would unfairly target drivers while doing little to improve public transportation. They also raised concerns about the potential negative impact on the city's economy.

Hochul Halts Controversial Congestion Pricing Plan, FBI Raids Home of Former Aide

Hochul's decision to halt the program comes as no surprise, given the widespread backlash it has faced. However, the FBI raid on Sun's home raises additional questions about potential wrongdoing within the governor's inner circle.

As the investigation into the raid continues, the congestion pricing program remains indefinitely on hold, leaving the future of transportation funding in New York City uncertain.