NYC Mayoral Candidate Defies Federal Order on Bus System

Zoran Mamdani, the leading candidate for New York City’s mayoral race, has disregarded a federal order from the Trump administration that halts construction on the city’s bus system. This decision is part of a broader trend where federal directives disrupt urban infrastructure initiatives.

Mamdani criticized the interference, stating, “The Trump administration is once again interfering with roads to slow down buses, worsen congestion and pollute the air,” as he expressed on the social media platform X.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recently reached out to the city’s transit agency, instructing them to stop all activities related to the 34th Street Busway project.

In a letter, FHWA Administrator Sean McMaster pointed out potential issues due to a “lack of coordination” among city and state officials as a reason for this halt. He disapproved of the city’s continuation of the project despite these concerns.

McMaster emphasized that such actions are “unacceptable” and could endanger future federal aid initiatives.

Mamdani gained substantial support in the Democratic primary this June and has centered his campaign around affordability, promising free bus service as a significant initiative.

“Free buses not only provide economic relief but also enhance public safety,” he stated during a recent debate involving former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa.

He remarked on the sluggish pace of city buses, noting that one route averages only 7.5 mph, and asserted that New Yorkers deserve better than “the slowest bus in the country.”

The federal request to pause this project continues a pattern of actions by the Trump administration that target city funding and resources.

Russell Vaught, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shared on X that the administration suspended $18 billion in federal grants to New York City due to what they termed “unconstitutional DEI principles.”

Additionally, the administration reduced funding for the city’s education system over non-compliance with transgender-inclusive policies, which has led to legal actions from public schools in New York City. While previous funding cuts were made, some of these, like a significant $187 million allocation for counterterrorism efforts, have been reinstated.

Looking ahead, Trump has warned of potential funding losses for New York City if Mamdani clinches the mayoral seat in November, stating, “He will have more problems with Washington than any mayor in the history of this once-great city.”