Comment Text:
I am extremely concerned by the potential ban of election contracts on Kalshi’s exchange platform. The role of policy predictability in shaping urban mobility strategies and infrastructure investments would be huge for me as an urban planner specializing in sustainable transportation solutions. Kalshi's election contracts could provide invaluable insights into future transportation policies, funding allocations, and infrastructure developments that profoundly influence city planning and public transit systems. These contracts would empower the anticipation of regulatory changes, prioritize sustainable mobility initiatives, and enhance accessibility for all residents, especially underserved communities.
By facilitating proactive planning informed by market dynamics, these contracts could lead to more resilient urban transport networks, reduced environmental impacts through modal shifts, and improved overall quality of life in urban areas worldwide. The decision to restrict these markets overlooks their potential to support evidence-based transportation planning and climate-resilient infrastructure investments, hindering efforts to address urban challenges like traffic congestion and air pollution. Stakeholders in urban planning and transportation policy must advocate for the inclusion of these contracts, highlighting their role in fostering sustainable urban development, equitable access to mobility, and resilient infrastructure systems that meet the needs of future generations.