As Gas Prices Surge, Hudson Valley Families Demand Answers from Mike Lawler
Photo Credit: Empire State Voices
WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK — Gas prices are up nearly $1.50 per gallon compared to this time last year. Grocery bills are rising. Inflation is climbing. Yet Rep. Mike Lawler continues to support the very policies making life more expensive for Hudson Valley families. And Lawler has even argued that higher gas prices tied to the Iran War he supports are "absolutely worth it."
Lawler backed the Republican Tax Law's cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential services, while the tariffs he supports are projected to cost New Yorkers an average of $2,512 in 2026 — a 44 percent increase from last year.
That is why constituents from across New York's 17th Congressional District joined Empire State Voices, Peekskill Progressives, and Indivisible Westchester on Tuesday outside a Tarrytown gas station to demand accountability for an affordability crisis that is hitting Hudson Valley families everywhere, from the gas pump to the grocery store.
“Every week feels more expensive than the last,” said Zach, a Hudson Valley resident and health care professional. “You go to the grocery store and spend more. You fill up your car and spend more. You pay your bills, and there's less left over at the end of the month. Families are doing everything right, but it feels like we're constantly falling further behind.”
“Every week, I see prices getting higher—gas, groceries, everything. It adds up. This war and tariffs aren’t helping people like me—they’re making it harder to get by. House Republicans supported this, and I’m the one paying for it. It’s time to focus on lowering prices and stop this ridiculous conflict,” said Brian, a veteran from the Hudson Valley."For Hudson Valley families, the affordability crisis isn't theoretical. It's showing up every time they buy groceries, fill up their gas tank, or pay their monthly bills," said Dylan Wheeler, Empire State Voices. "Gas prices are rising, costs keep climbing, and families are being asked to pay more while getting less. Constituents are demanding that Rep. Lawler stop supporting policies that make life more expensive and start fighting for the people he represents."
This action is part of a broader effort to hold elected officials accountable for policies that are increasing costs for working families throughout the Hudson Valley. Future actions will occur on every third Tuesday of the month.
To learn more about Empire State Voices, contact press@empirestatevoices.org
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About Empire State Voices
Empire State Voices is a multi-year campaign dedicated to amplifying the voices of everyday working New Yorkers. We are fighting for economic policies that make life more affordable for constituents and holding members of Congress across the state accountable when they fail to do the same. To learn more about Empire State Voices, contact press@empirestatevoices.org
