Summary of "What A Day" Episode: How States Can Fight Trump Featuring NY Gov. Kathy Hochul

Release Date: March 7, 2025
Host: Jane Coston
Guest: Governor Kathy Hochul, New York
Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

Introduction

In this episode of What A Day, host Jane Coston delves into the intricate dynamics between state governance and the Trump administration's federal policies. Featuring a comprehensive interview with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, the discussion centers on the challenges and strategies states employ to counteract the actions of the Trump administration. The conversation provides insights into the real-world implications of federal decisions on state operations, economies, and public welfare.

Trump's Tariff Policies and State Responses

Federal Tariffs Impacting States

Governor Hochul begins by addressing the tumultuous tariff policies implemented by President Trump, particularly against Mexico and Canada. These tariffs, intended as both economic and political tools, have placed significant strain on state economies.

Jane Coston [00:29]: "President Trump continues to toy with tariffs... There are 23 states with Democratic governors tasked with managing operations under these challenging federal policies."

Donald Trump [01:12]: "There'll always be a little short term interruption... our farmers are going to be very happy."

Hochul elaborates on the unpredictability of the Trump administration's approach to tariffs, which oscillates between imposing and exempting them without clear rationale.

Kathy Hochul [03:52]: "They are telling me as a state that I can't control my own damn traffic... We are under attack."

Economic Consequences for New York

The governor highlights the detrimental effects of these tariffs on New York's economy, particularly on sectors like manufacturing and energy.

Kathy Hochul [09:19]: "A French Canadian company that manufactures our subway cars... energy costs are going to go up."

State vs. Federal Authority: The Battle Over Congestion Pricing

Trump's Intervention in Local Policies

One significant area of contention is the Trump administration's efforts to block congestion pricing in Manhattan, a policy aimed at reducing traffic and funding public transit improvements.

Jane Coston [03:31]: "Efforts to block congestion pricing... even when it's like, this isn't your job."

Kathy Hochul [03:52]: "Something like congestion pricing... We have to fight back when policies or values are challenged."

Governor Hochul's Strategy

Hochul discusses her strategic approach to combating federal interference, emphasizing the importance of picking battles and maintaining a consistent message to preserve voter trust.

Kathy Hochul [05:35]: "We have to have a consistent message and pick our fights... I'm working on affordability."

Navigating Media and Public Perception

Countering Trump's Media Tactics

Governor Hochul addresses the Trump administration's adept use of media and social platforms to shape public narrative, making it challenging for Democrats to present counterarguments effectively.

Jane Coston [07:16]: "Trump administration is very skillful at using the media... fact checking is a problem."

Kathy Hochul [07:16]: "You just have to take the gloves off and jump in the arena."

Engaging with the Public

Hochul emphasizes the need for Democrats to connect personally with voters, using relatable stories and tangible policies to demonstrate effective governance.

Kathy Hochul [09:00]: "I'm trying to find ways to put money from the state back in their pocket... We need Washington, though."

Educational and Agricultural Challenges

Impact on Education and Farming

The episode touches upon the Trump administration's attempts to dismantle the Education Department and impose tariffs that adversely affect New York farmers, leading to increased costs and economic strain.

Kathy Hochul [05:35]: "Tariffs... my farmers cannot believe what is happening to them."

Jane Coston [09:19]: "Trump believes that there will be no consequences... What does it mean for a state like New York?"

Strategies for Democratic Governors

Proving Effective Governance

Governor Hochul advocates for Democratic leaders to showcase their competence by achieving tangible successes at the state level, thereby earning public trust and support.

Kathy Hochul [11:57]: "Prove that Democrats know how to govern at every level of government... focus on elections as well."

Connecting with Voters

She underscores the importance of authentic communication, urging Democrats to present themselves as relatable and grounded leaders who genuinely understand and address constituents' concerns.

Kathy Hochul [12:25]: "Be real, be human and don't be so detached from everybody. I really do. I'm not giving up on the Democrats and I'm not giving up on the people of this country."

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

The episode concludes with Governor Hochul reaffirming her commitment to combating federal policies that undermine state interests and emphasizing the necessity for consistent Democratic strategies to safeguard and advance state and public welfare.

Kathy Hochul [12:25]: "I'm not giving up on the Democrats and I'm not giving up on the people of this country. I will always have faith in them."

Jane Coston wraps up the discussion by highlighting the ongoing political battles and encouraging listeners to stay informed and engaged.

Final Thoughts

This episode of What A Day offers a poignant exploration of the friction between state and federal governance under President Trump’s administration. Through Governor Hochul's insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and resilience required for states to navigate and resist federal policies that threaten their autonomy and the well-being of their residents.

Notable Quotes:

• John Coston [00:29]: "President Trump continues to toy with tariffs... managing operations under these challenging federal policies."

• Kathy Hochul [03:52]: "We cannot be sucked into this moment by moment reaction... we have to pick our fights."

• Kathy Hochul [07:16]: "We have to use our personal stories, connect with people and then have the policies that'll show the contrast between what we're doing in our states versus the catastrophic damage that they're wreaking on the American people out of Washington."

• Kathy Hochul [12:25]: "Be real, be human and don't be so detached from everybody."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and viewpoints presented in the episode, offering readers a clear understanding of the strategies and sentiments shaping state leadership in opposition to federal policies.