The Trump administration has issued a stern warning to New York City’s transit system, threatening to withdraw federal funding unless a comprehensive plan is devised to combat crime. Though New York transit authorities highlight data indicating a downward trend in major subway-related crimes this year, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concerns in a letter about several “high-profile safety-related incidents” that have garnered attention.
Duffy underscored his point during a broadcast interview, stating that if the subway cannot ensure passenger safety, if commuters live in fear of being attacked or harmed, financial support would be at risk. He highlighted that not only New York but also Chicago and Washington, D.C. transit systems could face similar funding cuts unless they improve safety measures.
New York officials responded, expressing their willingness to elaborate on how both the MTA and NYPD are working collaboratively to mitigate crime issues and curb fare evasion. John McCarthy, Chief of Policy and External Relations for the MTA, reported significant improvements, noting a 40% reduction in crime compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2020, as well as historically low daily major crime figures in 2025.
Although violent crime within the subway is generally uncommon, there have been distressing high-profile incidents, such as a woman being set alight and individuals being pushed onto the tracks, causing unease among passengers. While major felonies in the subway system appear to have decreased in recent years, data indicates an increase in assault cases, from 373 in 2019 to 579 in 2024, per NYPD records.
Efforts to combat crime and fare evasion have increased, with more police officers stationed within the transit system. Demonstrating a commitment to crime deterrence, Governor Kathy Hochul deployed state National Guard members to key station entrances last year.
Secretary Duffy’s letter demands information on how New York officials are tackling transit worker assaults, fare evasion, and various criminal activities, specifying concerns around incidents such as “passengers being pushed in front of trains,” “subway surfing,” and suicide occurrences. Non-compliance with the information request would result in fund withholdings, with a reporting deadline set for March 31. The MTA, responsible for operating New York City’s buses and regional rail services, relies on a combination of funding, with $14 billion in federal funds anticipated as part of its extensive $68 billion capital roadmap through 2029.
New York is also contending with a looming deadline to counteract a Trump administration mandate aiming to invalidate Manhattan’s newly implemented congestion pricing system. Despite this, state officials remain resolute in advancing the toll initiative, designed to alleviate traffic and enhance funding for the country’s most burdened transit system. Duffy’s letter notably omits reference to the congestion pricing dispute.
