Governor Hochul speaks out against sky high energy costs; blames Trump administration for driving up fuel, oil prices amidst Middle East conflict

Earlier this week, New York Governor Kathy Hochul publicly condemned sky high energy rates that have New Yorkers outraged statewide.

"Energy prices are too damn high. Utility costs are too damn high," the Governor declared during a special press conference on Monday in Western New York.

"And hardworking people, like the ones in these great communities, are the ones footing the bills for chaos they did not create." However, our state lawmakers who represent the North Country and several other Republican figures, have blamed and continue blasting Hochul and Albany, NY Democrats for apparently paving the way for such incredibly stiff energy rates. 

As if power bills for New Yorkers this winter were not enough, National Grid is due, yet again, to increase rates for state residents on both electric and natural gas this coming April. 

Multiple sources indicate that several households will see combined increases nearing $15 monthly when this next rate increase takes effect. 

In January, Governor Hochul unveiled her Ratepayer Protection Plan, with aims of holding energy companies accountable to reduce energy bills and ensure a strong and reliable grid as part of her 2026 State of the State.

Despite that announcement, utility bills have skyrocketed all winter, leaving ratepayers furious and damaged financially. 

Listen to our latest on-air coverage from Thursday, March 19 for more of the Governor's remarks:

Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.