Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a New York Democrat, publicly criticized Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. The dispute centered on a video posted by Duffy.
In the video, Duffy appeared to boast about withholding federal funds from New York. The funds in question are tied to highway infrastructure projects.
Gillibrand argued the freeze on funding is punitive and politically motivated. She stated the money was already approved by Congress for the state.
The clash highlights ongoing tensions between the Biden administration and New York officials. New York has faced recent federal scrutiny over its transportation policies.
Duffy defended the funding hold by citing compliance issues with federal regulations. He did not specify which regulations New York had allegedly violated.
The dispute threatens to delay critical repairs and upgrades to New York’s aging highways. State officials warned the freeze could impact road safety and job creation.
Gillibrand pressed for immediate release of the funds during a Senate hearing. She demanded a clear explanation for the withholding from the Transportation Department.
