Targeting Mandani, the poor in Gomotsi are being offered free subway and bus rides.

After losing the New York City Democratic primary, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo shifted his campaign strategy, positioning himself as a pragmatic candidate similar to Zohran Mamdani. At a press conference on the 8th, Cuomo announced his public transportation policy, promising free subway and bus service for the poorest New Yorkers. This policy was a directive against Mamdani’s free bus plan.

Cuomo’s plan is based on New York City’s Fair Fares program, which offers 50% off fares for those earning less than $22,600 annually. This program benefits approximately 360,000 people, but only covers one-third of the eligible population. The new program would provide free rides to a similar group. Regarding the low participation rate for Fair Fares, Cuomo said the city needs to strengthen its promotion of the program and believes that the free option is more attractive than the 50% discount.

Cuomo estimated the project would cost $140 million annually, but this is more modest than Mamdani’s proposed free bus plan. Cuomo criticized Mandani’s plan as a “subsidy for the rich,” questioning, “Why should the government subsidize the rich?”

However, Cuomo’s transportation promises have also drawn criticism. Danny Pearlstein, a spokesman for the transportation advocacy group Riders Alliance, pointed out that Cuomo’s governorship failed to effectively manage MTA funds, neglected transportation affordability, and demonized riders who couldn’t afford fares. “If he truly believed that, why is he proposing it now?”

Public transportation has always been a key issue for voters. Mandani’s team proposed a free bus plan with increased frequency and faster operation, but critics point out that free rides would mean a $630 million annual revenue loss for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams is promoting a dedicated bus lane on Manhattan’s 34th Street, restricting private car traffic and improving bus efficiency.

At the press conference, Cuomo also addressed rumors of Trump meddling in the New York election. The New York Times recently broke the news that Cuomo recently discussed the mayoral election with President Donald Trump. However, Cuomo said he could not recall the last time he spoke with Trump, admitting only to contacting him after the assassination attempt last year. “I think I just left him a voice message,” Cuomo said.

After losing the Democratic mayoral primary, Cuomo has adopted a more down-to-earth approach, frequently engaging with voters on the streets. Cuomo stated that he will engage more in “close-up politics” going forward, such as taking the subway and walking the streets to directly engage with voters. His team will also make greater use of social media to reach out to young people.