New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has outlined a plan to provide $700 million in funding for free city bus service, proposing to finance it through increases in the state corporate tax. During a recent interview, Mamdani was pressed on the feasibility of the plan given Governor Kathy Hochul’s public opposition to corporate tax hikes.

When asked how he would secure the funding if the Governor resists raising taxes, Mamdani emphasized the end goal over the political process, stating, “The most important fact is that we fund it, not the question of how we do it.” Critics argue that his response sidesteps practical concerns about state-level approvals and the potential economic impact of higher corporate taxes, while supporters praise his focus on results and commitment to expanding public services.

Mamdani’s proposal reflects his broader agenda of prioritizing public transit accessibility and reducing costs for New Yorkers. By leveraging corporate tax adjustments, he aims to generate sufficient revenue without directly increasing fares, presenting a contrast to traditional funding models. The plan, however, sets the stage for potential conflicts with state leadership and raises questions about the feasibility of implementing large-scale tax changes without cooperation from Albany.

As Mamdani prepares to assume office, the debate over funding strategies underscores the tension between ambitious city initiatives and state-level political constraints, illustrating the challenges of executing transformative policy proposals in New York City’s complex governance landscape.