White House Forces Out Amtrak CEO

The White House forced Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner to resign this week after President Donald Trump demanded changes to the U.S. passenger rail system, two sources told Reuters' David Shepardson.

A White House official confirmed that Gardner had been asked to step down. I Photo: MarylandGovPics Flickr

Gardner, who had led Amtrak for over four years, announced his immediate departure, citing concerns about maintaining the company’s support from the Trump administration.

“I am stepping down as CEO to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration,” Gardner said in a statement.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who is advising Trump on downsizing the federal government, recently suggested privatizing Amtrak. A White House official confirmed that Gardner had been asked to step down.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that Amtrak must address safety concerns at Washington’s Union Station.

“It’s time for Amtrak leadership to clean up Union Station,” Duffy said. “It’s time to rid our nation's treasures of homelessness and crime. Commuters and travelers need to feel safe in our capital.”