Cantwell Statement on Trump Illegal Firing of Dem STB Member as Scrutiny of Massive Rail Merger Proposal Set to Begin

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, released the below statement regarding President Trump's August 27 illegal firing of Robert Primus, one of two Democratic members of the Surface Transportation Board (STB). Primus had been confirmed unanimously by the Senate and his sudden firing comes as the STB is set to consider the controversial proposed merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroads, that, if approved, would be the largest rail merger in the Nation's history. If not reversed, the Board would be left with two Republicans and one Democrat with two vacancies.

"The Surface Transportation Board plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient movement of American made and grown goods across our nation's rail network," Sen. Cantwell stated. "The largest rail merger ever proposed was just announced, and rather than call for robust review, the Trump Administration decided to illegally fire Robert Primus, a Democratic Board Member who would scrutinize this transaction. Farmers, manufacturers, rail workers, and the public deserve a Board that will do their job to ensure a competitive environment that won't increase freight rates and costs to consumers."

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