Political Quotes

“It is appalling that when the administration finally comes forward with its plan for Amtrak, it is basically to dismember the system, arguing somehow that Amtrak should be self-supporting. When this Congress and administration gave $5 billion to the airline industry, on top of the $11 billion for air traffic control, for an industry that has never shown a profit over its 75 years is a little bit disingenuous, to say the least. Amtrak plays a critical role in our transportation system. To dismember it now, to privatize a few profitable lines and then walk away from our commitment when we have never, never provided the money that was authorized originally, would be a sad day. Luckily, there is broad bipartisan support in this Congress. Over 162 Members support the approach of the gentleman from New York (Chairman Quinn) and the ranking member, the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Clements), to fund it for this year. A majority of the Senate agrees. Hopefully, we will be able to step up where the administration is failing in nerve.”