New York Man's 'PB4WEGO' License Plate Saved by Governor

Kathy Hochul personally intervened to reinstate the vanity plate after the DMV tried to revoke it.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 10:07pm

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When the New York DMV attempted to revoke a man's vanity license plate that read 'PB4WEGO', Governor Kathy Hochul personally called him to say she would get the plate reinstated. Hochul later posted on social media that the plate was a 'public service'.

Why it matters

This case highlights the power of government officials to intervene in seemingly minor issues that can have personal significance for citizens. The governor's actions to save the 'PB4WEGO' plate demonstrate her responsiveness to constituent concerns and willingness to wade into bureaucratic decisions.

The details

The New York DMV had initially moved to revoke the 'PB4WEGO' vanity plate, which the owner had used for years. However, after the owner's story gained attention, Governor Hochul personally called him to say she would ensure the plate was reinstated.

  • The New York DMV tried to revoke the 'PB4WEGO' license plate in early 2026.
  • Governor Kathy Hochul personally called the plate's owner in February 2026 to say she would get the plate reinstated.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York who intervened to save the 'PB4WEGO' license plate.

The owner of the 'PB4WEGO' license plate

A New York resident who had used the vanity plate for years before the DMV tried to revoke it.

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What they’re saying

“The plate was a 'public service'.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

The takeaway

This story demonstrates how government officials can sometimes use their power to address seemingly minor issues that have personal significance for citizens, highlighting the importance of responsive and empathetic leadership.