Zohran Sparks Socialist Double Down On Kansas City Zero Fare

Ahead of the midterm elections and despite recent local budget troubles . . . Our activists friends leverage national conversation against popular KCMO transit sentiment. 

Here's an off-the-record social media comment from a local activist that checks out and offers a preview of continued local transit advocacy inspire of a recent 12th & Oak decision . . . 

"The end of Zero Fare is a setback and not a final ruling. Look at what voters across the nation are saying. Transit equity is a human right and we will continue to fight for access for everyone in Kansas City. The success of of Zohran Mamdani shows us that people support free transit and its many benefits for the economy and the environment. We will continue to fight for what is in the best interest of all humans in KC and the world." 

Meanwhile, complaints about homeless ridership, the stench and basic economics have won out so far EXCEPT in the case of the streetcar which will remains free and still mostly for tourists despite an upcoming extension. 

In the meantime, here's a bit of conservative news posturing on the issue with reference to cowtown transit trouble . . . Check-it:  

Kansas City became the first major city in the U.S. to eliminate fares in 2020 when the city's transit authority zeroed out fares for all but its in-house ride-hailing service and its on-demand offering for seniors.

However, budget challenges facing Kansas City's public transit service prompted the city council to vote to reinstate fares for most riders – though low-income riders, people receiving aid from social service agencies helping veterans and homeless individuals won't be charged fares.

In New York, State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani – the socialist candidate who won the Democratic Party's primary in the mayoral race – is calling for an even more expansive plan to end fares in the city.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Kansas City ends free bus program over budget concerns while NYC dem-socialist pushes for no-fare transit

As Kansas City moves to reinstate bus fares for most riders over budget concerns, NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is pushing for the Big Apple to make all bus fares "free."