U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, has issued a statement in response to President Trump's recent dismissal of Robert Primus from the Surface Transportation Board (STB). Primus, one of two Democratic members on the STB, was confirmed unanimously by the Senate. His removal comes as the Board prepares to review a proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroads. If approved, this would be the largest rail merger in U.S. history.
With Primus's departure, the STB would consist of two Republicans and one Democrat, leaving two vacancies on the five-member board.
“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.”
