1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

Momentum is building across New York for a simple and long-overdue idea: tax the ultra-wealthy. In recent weeks, a growing number of millionaires themselves have begun speaking publicly about the need for higher taxes on the very wealthy. They recognize what many New Yorkers have been saying for years — that extreme concentrations of wealth alongside underfunded public needs are neither sustainable nor fair. When even some of those who would pay these taxes acknowledge the need for change, it should be a clear signal that the moment for action has arrived. New York is one of the wealthiest places on earth. We are home to enormous fortunes and record numbers of millionaires and billionaires. At the same time, working families are struggling with the cost of housing, healthcare, childcare, transportation, and education. Public infrastructure needs investment. Schools need support. Communities across the state are asking for resources to address climate resilience, transit, and public health. The revenue exists to meet these needs. It is simply concentrated at the very top. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has captured public attention by putting forward bold proposals that would ask the wealthiest New Yorkers to contribute more so that the state and city can invest in the common good. The popularity of these ideas reflects a broader shift in public sentiment. People are ready for leadership that is willing to confront inequality directly. If New York wants to remain a place where working people can live, build families, and thrive, we must ensure that the tax system reflects our shared responsibility to one another. This does not mean burdening middle-class families or small businesses. It means asking those who have benefited the most from our economy to contribute a fairer share toward sustaining the society that made that success possible. Governor Hochul, this is an opportunity to lead. Support policies that increase taxes on the ultra-wealthy. Work with New York City and leaders across the state to build a fairer tax system that invests in housing, education, infrastructure, and environmental protection. New Yorkers are ready for bold action. Increasingly, even many wealthy New Yorkers agree. It is time to listen — and act.