Senate Hearing Indicates Trouble for Public Transportation

Rail Industry Testifies on Safety and Regulation at Senate Hearing 

In June, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a high-profile hearing titled “On the Right Track: Modernizing America’s Rail Network.”  

Representing freight rail interests were both the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA). While the ASLRRA didn’t appear in person, a representative from a holding company owning seven short lines testified on their behalf. 

Unsurprisingly, the message from both Class I and short line freight rail interests stuck to a familiar script: “We’re vital to the economy and we’re thriving—but please stop regulating us.”  

This well-rehearsed narrative once again called for fewer safety rules and less government oversight, even as these companies continue to post strong profits. The contradiction between portraying themselves as economic juggernauts and claiming to be victims of federal oversight was on full display. 

Freshman Senator Moreno: A Troubling Moment for Public Transportation 

However, the most headline-grabbing moment didn’t come from railroad execs. It came from freshman Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) during his five minutes of questioning. 

Moreno, who now sits on a key committee that helps shape the future of transportation in America, made it clear where he stands on the future of public transportation.  

His vision: everyone should go buy a car. The best solution to America’s mass transit issues is for every citizen to purchase their own vehicle. 

To many, this might sound like an out-of-touch rookie mistake and with the price of cars in 2025, it is a little bit like the famous “Let them eat cake” line from the French Revolution.  

But for SMART-TD members, and all who support public transportation, this is no joking matter. It is a flashing warning light.  

Why? Senator Moreno wasn’t a policymaker before stepping into office. He wasn’t a mayor, a state senator, or even a city council member. He was… a car dealer. 

It gets worse. 

Follow the Money: $750,000 from the Auto Industry 

According to the non-partisan transparency site OpenSecrets.org, Moreno’s campaign received over $750,000 in contributions from the automotive industry. That’s a steep sum from an industry that stands to benefit from defunding or discrediting public transit. 

So when Moreno launched into a tirade against Amtrak, calling it the equivalent of a “1970s Russian car,” it felt less like genuine concern and more like an infomercial. When you’ve only sold one product your entire life, maybe everything starts to look like the same old sales pitch. 

This kind of logic, if left unchecked, poses a serious risk to SMART-TD’s members across Amtrak, commuter rail, and even our bus divisions. 

Where Do Moreno’s Loyalties Lie? 

Here’s where it gets ironic. 

While Senator Moreno was promoting private cars and badmouthing trains, his home state of Ohio, under fellow Republican and (SMART-endorsed) Governor Mike DeWine, is actively pushing for expanded passenger rail service. Plans are already underway for a high-speed rail line linking Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati. If successful, it could become one of the country’s most significant passenger rail expansions. 

So, which path will Senator Moreno choose? 

Will he listen to his own state, his constituents, his voters, and the future of transit in the Midwest? Or will he let the powerful auto industry steer Ohio’s destiny? 

A Chance for Education and Engagement 

To be fair, Moreno is new to the Senate, and SMART-TD believes there is still time to reach him. Our Safety and Legislative Departments, both at the national level and in Ohio, are ready to meet with Senator Moreno and explain how public transportation is a necessity for millions of Americans.  

We urge Senator Moreno to engage with the facts, to listen to the voices of Ohioans who rely on transit, and to work with us—not against us—to build a better, more connected transportation system. 

Let’s make sure the tracks ahead stay clear for public transportation, for rail labor, and for working families everywhere.