The Transport Workers Union Backs Zohran Mamdani’s Fare-Free Bus Program
The head of the national union representing 41,000 New York transit workers, John Samuelsen, showed his support for lefty mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani by endorsing Mamdani’s proposal for a fare-free bus program.
Samuelsen made a surprise appearance at a Mamdani rally, alongside official supporters like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and state Sen. John Liu. While Samuelsen clarified that his presence was not an official endorsement, he praised Mamdani’s initiative for free bus services.
“Zohran has collaborated with me on the fare-free bus initiative. He advanced the union’s position of fare-free buses,” Samuelsen stated, emphasizing the potential benefits of increased ridership and reduced assaults on bus drivers.
Despite the mayor not having direct control over fare policy, Mamdani’s campaign estimated that implementing the fare-free bus program would require around $630 million annually, which could be covered by a 2% tax increase on city residents earning over $1 million a year.
The TWU Local 100, however, has not officially endorsed any candidate in the Democratic primary for mayor, highlighting the diverse political landscape within the union.
While the debate over fare policy continues, Mamdani’s proposal for free bus services has gained significant attention and support from key figures in the transit industry, setting the stage for a potential shift in public transportation policies in New York City.
