The governor this week rolled out her $260 billion budget proposal and claimed she found a way to expand child care, education and other priorities “without raising taxes.” It’s a nice headline—but it’s not the full story.

Albany didn’t suddenly become efficient. The government didn’t shrink. Spending didn’t slow down. The truth is simpler: The economy is improving, and New Yorkers are paying more into the system as a result.

State revenues are up, driven largely by personal income taxes tied to high earners and financial markets. When Wall Street performs well, Albany also performs well. The governor’s own budget documents show that stronger-than-expected tax receipts and market-driven income growth are fueling this spending plan.

So this “no new taxes” budget isn’t the result of reform or restraint—it’s the result of a revenue surge. And Albany is spending every dollar of it. Across the country, the economy is clearly rebounding. Inflation, which peaked at more than 9 percent under the prior administration, has fallen sharply since its height in 2022.

President Donald Trump deserves credit for reversing course and restoring economic stability. Lower inflation means families can finally start catching up instead of falling further behind every month.

That national momentum matters in New York because our state is uniquely dependent on high-income taxpayers and Wall Street performance. When the economy improves, state revenues rise quickly.

But instead of using this moment to slow the growth of government or give families breathing room, Albany is locking in record spending. This budget is built on momentum Albany didn’t create—but it is eager to spend.

While Albany grows government, Washington is finally delivering real tax relief to New York families.

Thanks to Congressman Mike Lawler, the federal State and Local Tax cap has been lifted and will take effect this year, returning billions of dollars to taxpayers in high-cost states like New York. Middle-class homeowners across the Hudson Valley and the suburbs could see thousands of dollars a year back in their pockets—money that was previously double-taxed by Washington.

That includes income tax relief for middle-class families, deductions for seniors, tax credits for child care and savings on tips and overtime. The message is clear: Affordability starts with letting people keep more of what they earn.

Not growing government. Not expanding bureaucracy. But strengthening families.

In contrast, New York’s $260 billion budget is not restrained. It is a record. Albany’s problem has never been revenue—it has always been spending. When times are good, the government grows. When times are bad, taxpayers pay. This budget follows the same pattern: Use today’s revenue surge to justify tomorrow’s permanent costs.

That’s not responsible—it’s reckless.

Instead of locking in permanent spending, Albany should cut taxes for working families, pay down state debt and strengthen the Rainy Day Fund to prepare

The affordability crisis is not theoretical. Families feel it every day at the grocery store, at the gas pump, on their utility bills, and in their property taxes. The solution is not bigger government. The solution is more take-home pay. That means fair federal tax treatment, responsible state spending and an economy that rewards work and investment.

New Yorkers are doing their part. They are working. They are paying more into the system. They are driving the revenue that makes this budget possible.

Now Albany needs to do its part.

Because the answer to affordability is not found in a $260 billion spending plan. It’s found in the wallets of the people who fund it.