Florida Launches Times Square Campaign to Attract Businesses Away From New York
New York, Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
The Florida Chamber of Commerce launched a Times Square billboard targeting high taxes in New York, highlighting data showing Florida gains $2.4 million in net taxable income per hour.
Campaign Specifics and Strategic Location
The digital billboard campaign officially went live on Monday, 10 August 2026, positioned prominently at 1500 Broadway and West 43rd Street [1][2]. This location places the message directly in the heart of Manhattan’s financial district, ensuring maximum visibility among the demographic most likely to consider relocation [3]. The display features the sarcastic title ‘Economic Developer of the Year’ assigned to Mayor Zohran Mamdani,意在 highlighting the unintended consequences of progressive tax policies [1]. Florida Chamber of Commerce CEO Mark Wilson emphasized that the initiative is designed to thank the Mayor for the jobs and companies being pushed out of New York, noting that many are relocating to Florida [2][5].
Economic Data and Migration Trends
Underpinning the campaign is data suggesting a significant divergence in economic fortunes between the two states. According to the Chamber, Florida gains approximately $2.4 million in net taxable income per hour, while New York loses about $1.1 million per hour [1][4]. This hourly disparity results in a total economic divergence of 3.5 million every hour in favor of Florida [4]. Furthermore, migration patterns indicate Florida gains a net 551 residents daily, whereas New York loses 115 residents per day [1]. These figures are attributed to IRS migration data covering the 2022-2023 period, reflecting a long-term trend accelerated by the pandemic and recent policy changes [2].
Future Implications and Response
Looking ahead, the Florida Chamber of Commerce plans to expand this ‘Free Enterprise Florida’ campaign beyond New York City to include Chicago, California, and Minneapolis [1][2]. The organization argues that New York City’s municipal budget exceeds the entire Florida state budget by more than $8 billion, despite Florida having a larger population [4]. In response to the campaign, a City Hall spokesperson stated that by any metric, New York City’s economy under Mayor Mamdani is as strong as it has ever been [2]. The Chamber maintains that lowering taxes and reducing regulation are essential for achieving a 3% GDP growth rate nationwide [1].