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Mayor Mamdani Faces Backlash Over Bus Fare Hike

1/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced criticism after a bus fare increase took effect January 1, 2026, raising the base fare from $2.90 to $3.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved the fare hike before Mamdani took office.
Social media users criticized the hike because Mamdani campaigned on free bus service for working-class New Yorkers.
Mamdani acknowledged relief from the fare-free Q70 bus line.

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Story summary

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced criticism after a bus fare increase took effect January 1, 2026, raising the base fare from $2.90 to $3.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved the fare hike before Mamdani took office.
Social media users criticized the hike because Mamdani campaigned on free bus service for working-class New Yorkers.
Mamdani acknowledged relief from the fare-free Q70 bus line.