New York mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani, who is also a state representative, defended his plan to make all city buses free during the final mayoral debate on Wednesday night. He claims that this initiative, estimated to cost around $700 million annually, would ultimately be beneficial for the city’s economy and environment.
Mamdani stated that the proposal “addresses the reality that one in five New Yorkers can’t afford a bus fare,” despite living in the wealthiest city and country in history. He referred to the initiative as both an economic and social investment, suggesting that “transforming the slowest buses in the country into fast, free options might amount to $700 million a year,” but he believes it would effectively “more than double the economic income for New Yorkers throughout the city.”
He went on to explain that eliminating fares could lead to a reduction in assaults on bus drivers, an increase in bus ridership, and a positive environmental impact as fewer New Yorkers would rely on their cars or taxis, opting for buses instead. Mamdani expressed confidence in the feasibility of his plan, citing his experience as a state legislator where he successfully introduced free bus initiatives in the city’s history.
The cost estimates are based on examples from other cities that have tried free transit, notably Kansas City, which in 2020 became the first major U.S. city to remove bus fares. However, due to ongoing financial struggles, city officials have decided to restore the fare after years of experimentation. According to an announcement in April 2025, Kansas City Council voted to reinstate a $2 fare and reduce service, prompted by warnings from transit authorities about potential route cuts due to lack of funding. The council has put forth a six-month plan that allocates $46.7 million for operations through October but is seeking further funding for long-term sustainability.
Mamdani’s remarks come as his economic agenda continues to gain popularity, especially among government initiatives. There has historically been support from groups advocating for municipal grocery stores and increased property taxes in wealthier areas, along with backing for collective purchasing of private housing. Currently, Mamdani is leading the mayoral race with the support of 43% of voters, benefiting particularly from foreign-born individuals and younger residents.
Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned that Mamdani’s policies reflect a growing trend of socialist support within Democratic circles nationwide. Reports suggest that his campaign has received millions in indirect contributions from organizations tied to George Soros and support from left-leaning activist groups.
