Michelle Wu, the Mayor of Boston, passionately argues for free public transit, emphasizing its role in boosting economic mobility and racial equity. Brian Taylor, a transportation scholar from UCLA, delves into the complexities of public transit systems and how they interact with private vehicle use. The discussion highlights successful case studies like Kansas City's fare-free initiative and debunks myths about traffic congestion. Together, they explore the environmental benefits of free transit and the social implications for low-income communities.

Brian Taylor, a UCLA urban planning professor, Janno Lieber, CEO of New York's MTA, and Michelle Wu, the Mayor of Boston, discuss the future of public transit. They debate the complex question of making public transportation free, detailing its potential to enhance economic opportunity and social mobility while benefiting the environment. Insights include the impact of fare-free systems on ridership, equity, and innovative funding solutions. The conversation challenges traditional views on transportation financing and sheds light on efforts toward climate justice.

Guests: Claudine Gay (scholar and professor), Mayor Michelle Wu (political figure), Vivek Ramaswamy (entrepreneur and author), Abby Phillip (journalist and news anchor), Ted Cruz (politician and senator), Elon Musk (entrepreneur and CEO), George Soros (philanthropist and investor). Interesting topics discussed include the limitations of AI, Elon Musk's plans for education, Alex Jones' return to Twitter, NewsGuard's credibility, quantum batteries in climate models, government transparency, hostile work environments, belief in UFOs, Hunter Biden's willingness to testify publicly, copyright expiration, Google's lawsuit, pandemic commentary, and thoughts on Democrats and Republicans.