Challenges for Free Bus Service Proposal
The plan for free city bus service proposed by Zoran Mamdani, estimated to cost $700 million, is facing obstacles as Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed reservations about supporting it. This raises concerns about the viability of one of Mamdani’s key campaign promises.
During a press conference at the SOMOS political retreat in Puerto Rico, Hochul mentioned that the MTA, which is often short on funds, has already invested billions in significant projects. She stated, “We’re spending so much money that we can’t plan right now to take money out of a system that relies on bus and subway fares.”
Yet, she added, “But can we find a way to make it more affordable for people who need it? Of course we can.”
Mamdani refrained from providing a specific response, noting a potential disagreement with Hochul regarding the bus initiative. “I remain excited about our efforts to make America’s slowest buses faster and free,” he said at a separate news conference. “And we appreciate the governor’s continued partnership in meeting the affordability challenge.”
This is just the latest instance of tension between Hochul and Mamdani, a democratic socialist, following her endorsement of him in September. While the governor seems eager to support the rhetoric surrounding affordability, she’s hesitant about much of the associated agenda, particularly concerning a proposed $10 billion tax on the wealthy to fund initiatives like free child care and bus rides.
Hochul’s reserved stance could jeopardize Mamdani’s plans, as he will need assistance from both the governor and state lawmakers to achieve his goals. Key leaders in the state Legislature, including House Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, have been active in assisting Mamdani with his core promises.
Supporters of Mamdani have noticed Hochul’s cautious approach, leading them to chant “tax the rich” at her on multiple occasions, clearly irking the governor. In response to their demands, Hochul remarked, “The more you push me, the less I’m going to do what you want.”
However, she hasn’t entirely dismissed Mamdani’s ambitions. While calling for careful consideration regarding the bus initiative, Hochul did express a willingness to collaborate with him on providing free child care, though she cautioned it could take years and significant financial resources to achieve. “We’ll be on our way to getting there, and I know that because I’m committed to this as ‘Mom Governor,'” she stated. “But to do that statewide, that’s about $15 billion right now, which is my entire reserve fund.”
After the SOMOS gathering, Hochul traveled to the Dominican Republic for a breakfast event celebrating cultural exchange. Given that many New Yorkers have connections to the Dominican Republic, this trip is important for Hochul, who is aiming for re-election in 2026.
