Suffolk Reporter

Members of the Senate Republican Conference have expressed strong criticism of Janno Lieber, the Chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), following his comments regarding crime on New York's mass transit system. Lieber reportedly dismissed concerns about subway crime as being "in people’s heads," a statement that has sparked backlash from several senators.

Senator Steve Rhoads called for Lieber to resign, stating, "For years, MTA management has been driving the mass transit system into the ground. Now crime is out of control and top bureaucrats at the agency seem blind to the assaults and attacks occurring daily on subway platforms." He further urged Governor Hochul to remove Lieber if he does not step down voluntarily.

Deputy Senate Republican Leader Lanza criticized Lieber for ignoring riders' experiences: “Janno: pull your head out of your piles of statistics, get out from behind your computer, and walk a mile in your riders’ shoes before you ignore, dismiss and insult them.”

Senator Jack M. Martins emphasized the need for law enforcement and responsible spending by the MTA. He stated that congestion pricing and other taxes should not be increased on New Yorkers.

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick described Lieber's comments as "a slap in the face" to New Yorkers who depend on public transit.

Senator Steve Chan noted that a poll showed 64 percent of New Yorkers oppose congestion pricing, arguing it forces residents to choose between high taxes or unsafe transit conditions.

Criticism continued with Senator Bill Weber questioning congestion pricing's impact on working individuals: “Albany Democrats claim congestion pricing is to reduce traffic congestion, but at what cost? It punishes everyday people."

Senator Rob Rolison found Lieber's statements demeaning to NYPD officers: “As a retired police officer...the statement Mr. Lieber made is insulting and demeaning."

Senator Anthony Palumbo said that fiscal mismanagement has led to increased fares under dangerous conditions: "The MTA must come to grips with reality and make safety and affordability a priority in 2025."

Senator Dean Murray argued for appointing a financial control board due to alleged wasteful spending by the MTA.

Finally, Senator Alexis Weik condemned Lieber's approach towards congestion pricing while criticizing commuters’ concerns about subway crime: “It’s clear, it’s time for him to go! It’s time for a Financial Review Board.”