Leaders of New York State initiated a vigorous defense strategy on Wednesday, November 6, in response to Donald Trump’s presidential election triumph. They introduced a new measure to safeguard state policies from possible federal interference.
The “Empire State Freedom Initiative,” a thorough program to counter potential policy issues from the incoming Trump administration, was announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, and Attorney General Letitia James, both Democrats.
During a press conference at her Manhattan, New York office, Hochul stated, “You try to harm New Yorkers or roll back their rights, I will fight you every step of the way.”
The initiative will concentrate on the protection of reproductive rights, civil rights, immigration policies, gun safety regulations, labor rights, LGBTQ protections, and environmental rules.
James, who recently secured a $454 million civil fraud verdict against Trump, highlighted her office’s preparedness to face the incoming administration. “I am ready to do everything in my power to ensure our state and nation do not go backwards,” James expressed.
Republican leaders strongly criticized the announcement. The State Republican Party chairman, Ed Cox, labeled Hochul’s approach as “out of bounds and counterproductive.” “This does not help New Yorkers. It’s dumb and bizarre,” Cox commented.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), House GOP Conference chairwoman, emphasized Trump’s better performance in New York as compared to past elections. “President Trump performed better in New York than any Republican presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan,” Stefanik pointed out.
Despite the adversarial tone, Governor Hochul recognized potential avenues for cooperation with the Trump administration, including the potential abolition of the $10,000 limit on state and local tax deductions and continued funding for New York infrastructure projects such as the expansion of the Second Avenue subway line and the Hudson River tunnel reconstruction.
The Empire State Freedom Initiative comprises a team of state experts who will craft strategies to respond to potential federal policy changes affecting New York residents.
