The early read out of Albany is that congestion pricing just doesn't have the legs in the Assembly Democratic caucus, although the city is trying to get leverage by tying it to the budget.
Sheldon Silver refused to declare it dead to the Post. On the other hand, he told Newsday, "I still have a number of issues" -- of the philosophical, rather than horse-trading, variety.
And the NY Sun warns that defeat of the plan could "irrevocably rupture" the relationship between Silver and Mayor Bloomberg. Remember, Silver gets blame from Bloomberg for blocking the West Side Stadium and the mayor's Olympian dreams:
"The mayor may use his political influence and fortune against Mr. Silver, political insiders say. This year, Mr. Silver, 64, is expected to face at least two Democratic primary opponents in September. Mr. Bloomberg could go as far as to endorse and provide financial support for one of the challengers."