Jeffries Calls EV Mandate a ‘Scam’
New York Congressman Hakeem Jeffries has reportedly criticized the ongoing push for electric vehicles (EVs) in New York and New Jersey, calling it a “scam.” The comments, allegedly made during a private meeting, suggest the initiative is less about environmental concerns and more about promoting luxury vehicles many Americans can’t afford.
Jeffries’s remarks came as New York and New Jersey continue to pursue ambitious EV mandates. Both states aim for 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, a policy championed by Governors Kathy Hochul of New York and Phil Murphy of New Jersey. These goals align with broader Democratic efforts to address climate change.
According to sources familiar with the closed-door meeting, Jeffries stated, “We’re not forcing people into affordable electric cars to help the environment. We’re pushing luxury models most folks could never dream of affording.” These comments have not been officially confirmed by Jeffries’s office.
Critics have long voiced concerns about the practicality and financial implications of a rapid switch to EVs. While affordable EV models are limited, the market features numerous high-end options from Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid, often priced above $70,000.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the median household income in 2024 was approximately $74,000. This means that purchasing many of the prominent EVs could require a significant portion of an average family’s annual earnings, raising questions about the initiative’s accessibility for working-class families.
