Middle-class workers pushed into subway tunnels by new tax from New York Democrats

New York Democrats are implementing policies like congestion fees on cars and trucks entering Manhattan to encourage workers to use the subway system as they return to offices after the coronavirus pandemic.

The new congestion fee, criticized for its impact on the middle class and businesses, aims to promote subway usage, reduce exhaust fumes, and generate revenue for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

It costs drivers $9 if they want to travel south of Central Park or enter downtown Manhattan from Brooklyn or New Jersey.

But while authorities insist crime is down, violence and the fear of violence continue to rise.

Felony assaults in the transit system saw a slight increase in 2024, while subway homicides doubled to 10 from the previous year’s five. Despite these concerning statistics, overall subway crime decreased by 5.4% as reported by the NYPD.

Kamel Hawkins, 23, was charged with attempted murder for allegedly shoving a 45-year-old man onto subway tracks as a train approached. (MTA)

Janno Lieber, the MTA chairman, told Bloomberg News earlier this week the idea of crime has “gotten in people’s heads” but claimed the trains are safe.

“The overall stats are positive,” he told the outlet. “Last year, we were actually 12.5% less crime than 2019, the last year before COVID. But there’s no question that some of these high-profile incidents, you know, terrible attacks, have gotten in people’s heads and made the whole system feel less safe.” 

Daniel Penny arrives at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York City Dec. 5, 2024. (Adam Gray for Fox News Digital)

On top of the arson murder and the random slashings, straphangers are still dealing with shoving attacks, many of which have been fatal as victims fall in front of moving trains, and the trial of Daniel Penny, who was arrested and charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide after he intervened in a man’s violent rant of death threats.

Penny was acquitted of the lesser charge, and prosecutors asked the court to dismiss the more serious one after jurors deadlocked.

“The Boston Tea Party started the greatest revolution in the history of civilization over a 2% tax,” LoBaido said. “And this, what is happening here is pure r—.”

Fox News’ Sophia Compton contributed to this report.