Public transit systems in Chicago and Boston could lose federal support if officials fail to address rising crime and safety concerns, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
“President Trump cares about our great cities and the hardworking Americans who inhabit them,” Duffy wrote in a news release Friday. “While local leaders seem intent on putting the needs of criminals first, we’re not waiting for the next Iryna.
“Chicago and Boston are on notice to take actions that enhance safety and reduce the crime affecting their riders and transit workers – or risk federal support. This is about standing up for American families who deserve a safe and clean transportation system.”
In Charlotte, North Carolina, Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska was stabbed to death in a random act of violence – potentially a race-based hate crime where the alleged murderer uttered “I got that white girl” – highlighting the dangers of riding public transportation throughout America.
The Chicago Transit Authority has come under scrutiny, including a recent news report in which a 27-year veteran of the CTA was senselessly punched and thrown onto the tracks after leaving his customer service booth. An elderly woman was shoved off a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority bus and seriously injured. Last month, an individual removed his belt on an MBTA bus and assaulted riders.
“Chicago and Boston are the third and fourth largest public transportation systems in the country in terms of ridership. Both cities allow cashless bail, which allows deranged criminals to repeatedly terrorize public spaces,” according to the release.
“Our transit systems are the circulatory system of our communities,” Federal Transit Administrator Marc Molinaro wrote in the release. “That’s why our focus is on a safe, clean transit experience for everyone using public transportation – whether you’re a worker helping people get where they need to go, a commuter relying on transit to get to work, or a parent helping your children get to and from school or other important appointments.
“We’re making transit safe again.”
In letters sent to the CTA and the Boston MBTA, Duffy gave both agencies 14 days to submit written reports outlining steps taken to curb violence, reduce fare evasion, and improve cleanliness. He also requested details on safety funding for the next two fiscal years, including any federal assistance already received.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
