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Amtrak CEO Resigns as Privatization Debate Intensifies

Stephen Gardner steps down, citing the need to maintain the Trump administration's confidence, while Elon Musk advocates for privatizing the passenger railroad.

FILE - Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner speaks during a House Transportation subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, June 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)
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Amtrak's Stephen Gardner (L) speaks to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy (R) and members of a state Congressional delegation during a tour of the Gateway Project through the North River Tunnel beneath the Hudson River, in Weehawken, New Jersey, U.S., January, 28, 2019. Ed Murray/N.J. Advance Media/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
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Overview

  • Stephen Gardner announced his immediate resignation as Amtrak CEO, ending over four years in the role and 16 years with the company.
  • Gardner stated his decision was motivated by the need to ensure continued support from the Trump administration for Amtrak.
  • Elon Musk has called for privatizing Amtrak, aligning with his broader push to privatize government services, including the Post Office.
  • Amtrak has opposed privatization, citing Great Britain’s failed rail privatization efforts and emphasizing record ridership and revenue in 2024.
  • The Trump administration has historically sought to reduce federal funding for Amtrak, contrasting with significant rail investments under the Biden administration.