Robert Moses

Robert Moses was a New York public official and influential urban planner whose control over public authorities and major infrastructure projects reshaped the city and region. Archival interviews and speeches capture his own remarks.

Robert Moses Turned Bridge Tolls Into a Three-Decade Power Base

Dwarkesh Patel argues that Robert Moses and Lyndon Johnson built power by different means. Moses used legal provisions and the Triborough Bridge Authority’s toll revenue to lodge durable authority in an institution beyond elected officials’ easy reach. As Senate majority leader, Johnson built influence through procedure, information and bargaining, making colleagues depend on his help to advance legislation.

Dwarkesh PatelOct 29, 202611 min read