Bruce Blakeman vows to scrap New York's electric-vehicle mandate if elected governor
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman says he will repeal New York’s 2035 zero-emission vehicle requirement, calling it a “war on drivers.”
During a campaign event, Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman pledged to eliminate the state law that obliges all new passenger cars, trucks and SUVs sold in New York to be zero-emission by 2035, describing the policy as a “war on drivers.” He accused Governor Kathy Hochul of repeatedly raising tolls, fares and imposing congestion pricing, then attempting to dictate the type of vehicle owners can keep. Blakeman warned that the electric-vehicle mandate would strip drivers of choice, push up prices and overload an already stressed electrical grid.
Auto dealers, represented by Greater Automobile Dealers Association of NY chairman Jack Weidinger, have called the deadline unrealistic, and some Democratic legislators have urged a slowdown. Hochul has defended the rule, citing $30 million in subsidies and the state’s climate goals, and framed it as essential for reducing emissions and improving public health. The debate unfolds as gas prices climb amid the U.S. conflict with Iran.
Why it matters
The outcome will determine whether New York pursues an aggressive electric-vehicle transition or retains gasoline cars for commuters.
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