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Hochul Rejects Free MTA Buses as Mamdani’s Transition Draws Scrutiny

The governor is weighing a phased expansion of universal childcare with a $15 billion price tag.

Overview

  • Gov. Kathy Hochul said New York cannot forgo MTA fare revenue to make buses free, while signaling interest in phased statewide universal childcare and promising a plan by early 2026.
  • State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie expressed openness to elements of Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani’s agenda, including potential tax increases, as City Council leadership jockeying begins.
  • The Anti-Defamation League launched a “Mamdani Monitor” and tip line to track appointments and actions it views as potential risks for the Jewish community.
  • President Donald Trump derided Mamdani’s supporters, and Republican strategists said they plan to use the election to court Jewish voters in the 2026 midterms.
  • Youth political engagement is rising, with Run for Something reporting 10,000 sign-ups after Mamdani’s June primary win and another 2,000 since Election Day.