President Donald Trump suggested to Gov. Kathy Hochul that she dismiss the head of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), even though he did not identify the individual by name, sources told The Post. Trump's directive came after MTA CEO Janno Lieber reportedly overstepped by sending a strong letter to federal officials regarding the ongoing reconstruction of Penn Station.
A source described Lieber as "inflammatory" and stated that Trump "had heard about the difficulties" Lieber was causing concerning the project. Lieber, however, was not named by Trump during the call, according to the report.
Lieber responded to the news of Trump's suggestion with a blend of surprise and humor. "I guess I’m not the president’s type, you know?" Lieber said following an MTA board meeting. "I'm surprised by that 'cause I am a white guy in a tie, and I satisfy the Hegseth standard. I’m not a beardo or a weirdo."
He added, "I accept that, but I’m disappointed."
The friction stems from a letter Lieber sent in June to Amtrak executive Andy Byford, in which Lieber accused federal officials of attempting to exclude the MTA from decisions about the Penn Station overhaul. Lieber criticized this as "gamesmanship" and questioned project costs, funding, and developer selection. This occurred despite Trump having previously removed the MTA from leading the overhaul in April 2025 and placing Amtrak in charge.
Sources indicated that Hochul's office had not authorized Lieber's letter and that the governor was displeased with it. Despite Trump's suggestion, Hochul, who appointed Lieber, declined to fire him. "We're working together, so don't worry about it," Hochul reportedly told Trump during their conversation.
Another source suggested that Lieber's position might still be precarious. "I don't think he's gonna get fired immediately, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was eventually pushed out," the source said. When asked about Hochul's reaction to the letter, Lieber reiterated his earlier sentiment, stating that she told him he was "not the president’s type."