North Carolina removes bus benches installed by Democratic Socialists

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is removing roughly 20 unauthorized bus benches installed by a local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, reports Emily Sawaked in Port City Daily.

According to a NCDOT spokesperson, "Because these benches are not in compliance with the NCDOT Bus Shelter & Bus Stop Guidelines and are a safety hazard and liability for the state, they are being removed from state property." The local transit agency, Wave, said they do not have the authority to remove the benches because they are on state- or city-owned property.

The DSA chapter started placing its guerilla benches at local bus stops in April 2025. Prior to their efforts, Wave records showed that of its 400 bus stops, just 62 had benches. "The group took on the project as a 'mutual aid' benefit for residents to 'improve city transit and the lives of working class Wilmington residents by making their commute easier,' according to a statement." Months after their installation, the group's use of political messaging on some benches (such as "No rent for slum lords") prompted complaints to the transit agency and NCDOT. 

The DSA says the benches are part of an effort to provide amenities to underresourced areas and draw attention to the progress that a small group can make with few financial resources.