Mayor Zohran Mamdani was pressed Wednesday about his now very public disagreement with Gov. Kathy Hochul over taxes.

Despite opposition from Hochul, Mamdani told reporters during a press briefing he still believes “now is the time to increase taxes on the most profitable corporations that do business in New York and the wealthiest residents that call the city home.”

What You Need To Know

Mayor Zohran Mamdani renewed his call for higher taxes on the highest earners in the state Wednesday, claiming the city needs that funding

Gov. Kathy Hochul said Tuesday she does not plan to raise taxes 

Mamdani also announced new rules prohibiting hotel operators in the city from charging so-called “junk fees,” as well as unexpected credit card holds

The city says DCWP received over 300 complaints from consumers related to hidden hotel fees or unexpected holds in 2025

Taxing the rich to pay for universal childcare was a signature campaign issue for Mamdani, however those tax hikes would have to be approved by state lawmakers.

During her budget address Tuesday, Hochul rebuffed the idea of taxing the rich, saying the state can pay for an expansion of childcare in New York City without raising taxes.

Hochul and Mamdani both appear to be standing firm setting of what could be a tough series of negotiations.

In the coming weeks Mamdani will send representatives from his administration to Albany to fight for more city funding in the state budget. Mamdani said he believes part of the reason why the state is solid financially is because of the city’s tax base.

During Mamdani’s briefing Wednesday, he and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Sam Levine announced new rules prohibiting hotel operators in New York City from charging so-called “junk fees,” often labeled as a “resort fee” or “destination fee,” as well as unexpected credit card holds.

“This new rule will ensure that New Yorkers and visitors alike are not stuck paying hidden hotel fees, and will instead save millions of dollars each year,” Mamdani said.

The city says DCWP received over 300 complaints from consumers related to hidden hotel fees or unexpected holds in 2025.

Some economists have estimated that banning these fees will save consumers more than $46 million this year.

The final rules go into effect on Feb. 21.