As 2025 mayoral race frontrunner Zohran Mamdani champions his ambitious proposal for a free bus system across NYC, a growing number of skeptics and supporters are voicing their thoughts over the plan's feasibility, funding and potential impact.

More than 1 million New Yorkers ride MTA buses each day. While the idea of fare-free buses has attracted enthusiasm from many of these commuters, critics are raising red flags about the practicalities of implementing the idea.

While the Democratic candidate did not respond to multiple requests for comment from amNewYork asking about his research behind fare-free buses, he has stated that the plan would make buses go faster. No one would have to pay when they board.

“Unlike on the subway, when you pay your fare, you’re doing so on the bus,” Mamdan

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