Congestion toll critic Marc Molinaro in line to become Trump's US transit chief could spell trouble for the MTA

Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, August 6th 2025 at 16:37 GMT by New York Post
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Trump is considering appointing Marc Molinaro to run the federal agency that oversees public transit - a move that could spell trouble for Manhattan's unpopular congestion toll.

Former NY Rep. Marc Molinaro Eyed for Key Transit Role in Trump Administration

In a move that underscores President-elect Donald Trump's strategy to blend congressional experience with infrastructure priorities, former New York Republican Congressman Marc Molinaro is reportedly under serious consideration to lead the nation's transit efforts. Sources close to the transition team indicate that Molinaro, who recently concluded his term representing New York's 19th Congressional District, could be tapped as the head of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) or a similar high-level position within the Department of Transportation. This potential appointment comes as Trump prepares to take office for his second term, with a renewed focus on revamping America's aging infrastructure, including public transportation systems that have long been plagued by inefficiencies, funding shortfalls, and political gridlock.

Molinaro, 49, brings a unique blend of local and federal experience to the table. Hailing from upstate New York, he began his political career at a remarkably young age, becoming the mayor of Tivoli, a small village in Dutchess County, at just 18 years old in 1994. This made him one of the youngest mayors in U.S. history, a distinction that highlighted his early commitment to public service. Over the years, Molinaro climbed the ranks in local government, serving as a Dutchess County legislator and eventually as the county executive from 2012 to 2023. During his tenure as county executive, he gained a reputation for fiscal conservatism, advocating for balanced budgets and reforms in social services, particularly in areas like mental health and addiction treatment—issues that have personal resonance for him, as he has openly discussed his own family's struggles with these challenges.

His leap to national politics came in 2018 when he ran as the Republican nominee for New York governor against incumbent Andrew Cuomo. Although he lost that race, Molinaro's campaign emphasized rural economic development, tax relief, and opposition to what he described as Albany's overreach. Undeterred, he pivoted to Congress, winning election to the House of Representatives in 2022 after a competitive race in the redrawn 19th District, which encompasses parts of the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Southern Tier regions. As a freshman congressman, Molinaro positioned himself as a moderate Republican, often working across the aisle on issues like agriculture, veterans' affairs, and infrastructure. He served on key committees, including the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he advocated for increased funding for rural transit systems, bridge repairs, and public-private partnerships to modernize outdated rail and bus networks.

Molinaro's time in Congress was marked by a pragmatic approach that sometimes put him at odds with the more hardline elements of his party. For instance, he voted in favor of bipartisan infrastructure bills under the Biden administration, arguing that such investments were critical for economic growth in underserved areas like upstate New York. This stance could appeal to Trump, who has promised a massive infrastructure overhaul in his second term, potentially including high-speed rail projects, urban subway upgrades, and incentives for electric vehicle infrastructure—though with a Republican twist emphasizing deregulation and private sector involvement over federal mandates.

The speculation around Molinaro's potential role as "transit chief" aligns with Trump's broader cabinet-building strategy, which has favored loyalists with practical experience in key sectors. If confirmed, Molinaro would oversee the FTA, an agency responsible for distributing billions in federal grants to support mass transit systems across the country, from New York City's subways to rural bus lines in the Midwest. This position would place him at the forefront of addressing pressing challenges like post-pandemic ridership declines, supply chain disruptions affecting vehicle manufacturing, and the push toward sustainable transportation amid climate concerns. Insiders suggest that Molinaro's upstate roots make him particularly attuned to the needs of non-urban areas, where public transit is often underfunded and overlooked compared to major metropolitan hubs.

Reactions to the potential nomination have been mixed but largely positive within Republican circles. Fellow New York Republicans, such as Rep. Elise Stefanik, have praised Molinaro as a "dedicated public servant" with a deep understanding of transportation's role in economic vitality. Conservative commentators have noted that his selection could help bridge divides between urban and rural interests, especially in battleground states where infrastructure promises swayed voters in the 2024 election. On the Democratic side, some critics have expressed skepticism, pointing to Molinaro's opposition to certain environmental regulations that could impact green transit initiatives. For example, during his congressional tenure, he supported measures to expedite permitting for energy projects, which some environmental groups argue could undermine efforts to reduce emissions in the transportation sector.

If Molinaro accepts the role, it would mark a significant chapter in his career, transitioning from elected office to executive leadership in an administration known for its bold, sometimes controversial policy shifts. Trump's first term saw ambitious but uneven infrastructure efforts, including the failed "Infrastructure Week" initiatives, and this time around, the president-elect has vowed to prioritize "America First" projects that create jobs and boost domestic manufacturing. Molinaro could play a pivotal role in executing this vision, perhaps championing innovations like autonomous vehicles or expanded Amtrak services while navigating the complexities of federal-state partnerships.

Beyond policy, Molinaro's personal story adds a layer of relatability. As a father of four, including children with disabilities, he has been an advocate for inclusive policies, which could influence how transit accessibility is addressed under his watch. His experience with loss—his wife passed away in 2019—has also shaped his empathetic approach to governance, often emphasizing community resilience. Political analysts speculate that this nomination could signal Trump's intent to reward moderates who supported his agenda without alienating the party's base, especially in purple districts like those in New York.

As the transition unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Molinaro secures the nod. Confirmation hearings, if they occur, could delve into his views on hot-button issues like union labor in transit projects, federal funding for high-speed rail (a pet project of Trump's ally Elon Musk), and responses to recent transit crises, such as the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene's impacts on Southern rail lines. Regardless of the outcome, Molinaro's potential ascent highlights the enduring influence of regional politicians in shaping national policy, particularly in an era where infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges but about connecting communities in a divided nation.

This development also reflects broader trends in Trump's personnel choices, favoring individuals with proven track records in red-leaning areas to implement his "Make America Great Again" agenda. For New Yorkers, it could mean a familiar face advocating for the state's transit needs, from the beleaguered MTA to upstate commuter lines. As details emerge, the appointment process will undoubtedly spark debates on the future direction of U.S. transportation policy, with Molinaro potentially at the helm steering it toward a more efficient, equitable horizon. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full New York Post Article at:
[ https://nypost.com/2025/01/28/us-news/ex-ny-rep-marc-molinaro-may-become-trumps-transit-chief/ ]

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Congestion toll critic Marc Molinaro in line to become Trump's US transit chief could spell trouble for the MTA

Former NY Rep. Marc Molinaro Eyed for Key Transit Role in Trump Administration