I appreciate that you are constantly evaluating new routes and new service options for Amtrak and for your riders.

I am recommending suggesting that Amtrak should not be allowed any more CRISI grant funding over the next 5 years.

I am confident that, together, freight railroads and Amtrak can find common ground that benefits all parties.

I think transparency is so important.

I also ask unanimous consent that the record remain open for 15 days for any additional comments and information submitted by Members and witnesses to be included in the record of today's hearing.

The American people have a right to know.

Since its creation in 1971, Amtrak has never made a profit.

I find it kind of disturbing in many ways that this is public transportation, billions of dollars going to it.

I want to spend just a moment here and talk a little bit about CRISI and CRISI grants.

Amtrak must work to attract customers and revenue and operate as a reasonable steward of the taxpayers' dollars.

Amtrak's passenger expansion efforts should not be allowed to obstruct the critical movement of freight railroads.

While those modes receive Federal support, they are also essential forms of transportation in high use and high demand by the American people.

I view that this Department is failing to protect this country, which is its core mission.

I am concerned about rule of law. I am concerned about the deaths.

Unfortunately, now we are holding a full hearing to discuss a highly technical bill almost half the Committee saw for the first time at the end of last week.

As long as I can cast a vote, I will be casting a vote to protect Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

It is time to cause the wealthy to pay their fair share of taxes so that we can pay our debts.

as we look for new ways to extort capitulation, to avoid negotiation, and to protect the wealthy from paying their fair share of taxes