Former Charlotte City Councilman Tariq Bokhari steps down from federal position after five months

WASHINGTON, D.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Former Charlotte City Councilman Tariq Bokhari has stepped down from his position with the Federal Transit Administration after just five months. 

Bokhari, who was a deputy administrator with the Department of Transportation agency, announced the move on his X account on Thursday.  

“I was brought into the USDOT in the first wave of this new administration to establish a new framework, set up processes, and lay out a gameplan for not just the next 4 years, but the next generation. During that time I worked as hard as I’ve ever worked, and with a great team we achieved some amazing results in just the last 5 months: clearing massive grant backlogs left to us by the last administration, clearing red tape that slowed down projects, establishing an AI framework for the future, and incentivizing big, beautiful projects that are safe, family-centric, and a good use of taxpayer dollars. One initiative I am incredibly proud of jump-starting is a 10-year vision to take the global lead in Autonomous Transit.”

He said he’s coming back to Charlotte to help his wife, Krista, in her own City Council campaign this fall.

“Seeing our President and Administration at work up close was an amazing honor, and I am confident that Secretary Duffy, Administrator Molinaro and the countless other patriots serving this country with everything they have are going to continue their amazing work and take us to the next level,” Bokhari said.

A USDOT spokesperson confirmed the move:

“Mr. Bokhari has departed from federal service. We appreciate his service and wish him well.”

Bokhari served District 6 in south Charlotte from 2017 until resigning this April. He was also central to a reported six-figure settlement this spring between Police Chief Johnny Jennings and City Council after Bokhari allegedly threatened to “ruin” the chief’s career over the refusal to allow officers to wear outer-carrier protective vests. 

Jennings has since announced his resignation.