**Summary: Federal Transportation Secretary Warns Chicago and Boston Over Transit Safety Concerns**
In the wake of escalating violence on public transit systems across the United States, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a stern warning to the cities of Chicago and Boston, threatening to withhold federal support unless immediate action is taken to improve safety for riders and transit workers. The announcement comes amid heightened national attention following the fatal stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a commuter train in Charlotte, North Carolina, an incident that has sparked intense debate over transit security and local crime policies.
**A String of Violent Incidents Raises Alarm**
In a news release issued Friday, Secretary Duffy criticized what he described as a “failure” by Chicago and Boston to protect the users of their transit systems. Citing a series of recent violent incidents, Duffy highlighted the assault of a long-serving Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) employee who was punched and thrown onto the tracks, the case of an elderly woman violently pushed off a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) bus, and a separate episode in which a man attacked passengers with a belt. These incidents, Duffy argued, are symptomatic of broader safety issues plaguing two of the nation’s largest and most heavily used transit networks.
The Department of Transportation’s news release underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that such attacks not only endanger passengers but also erode confidence in public transportation as a safe and reliable option for millions of Americans. The public outcry has been further fueled by recent high-profile crimes on transit systems nationwide, with many commuters expressing growing fears for their personal safety.
**A Call for Stronger Leadership and Accountability**
Secretary Duffy, who served under President Trump, emphasized that ensuring the safety of public transit is not just a matter of policy, but a basic necessity for American families who rely on these systems daily. In his statement, he said, “President Trump cares about our great cities and the hardworking Americans who inhabit them. 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.”
Duffy’s comments reflect a broader frustration among federal officials regarding the perceived lack of decisive action by local authorities. The Secretary’s approach signals a willingness to use federal funding as leverage to prompt change, suggesting that cities failing to meet safety standards could see their financial support reduced or withdrawn altogether.
**Demands for Concrete Action and Accountability**
In addition to his public statement, Secretary Duffy sent formal letters to the leaders of both the CTA and MBTA. Addressed to CTA Acting President Nora Leerhsen and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng, the letters demanded that each agency submit written reports within 14 days detailing specific measures taken to address crime, prevent fare evasion, and improve system cleanliness.
The requested reports must also include comprehensive information about funding sources for the upcoming fiscal years, especially those allocated toward safety and security. Duffy specifically asked that these reports outline any federal funds received, including those from agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security. This requirement indicates an intent to closely scrutinize how federal resources are being utilized at the local level to bolster transit safety.
Moreover, Duffy criticized the cities’ cashless bail policies, arguing that such measures have enabled “deranged criminals to repeatedly terrorize public space.” This criticism aligns with ongoing debates in many U.S. cities over the impact of bail reform initiatives on public safety and recidivism.
**Local Transit Agencies Respond**
In response to the recent attack on an elderly woman in Boston, MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safety. “Safety will always be at the forefront of everything we do, and I’m proud of the prompt response and investigation by the MBTA Transit Police that led to the arrest of this individual,” Eng stated. He emphasized that the public deserves a safe transit environment and encouraged riders to report any concerns anonymously through the MBTA’s See Say app.
Eng’s statement reflects the challenges transit agencies face in balancing public relations with genuine improvements to security. While swift police action in the aftermath of violent incidents is important, critics argue that more proactive, systemic changes are needed to prevent such events from occurring in the first place.
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