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Re: FRA Invites Bids to Replace Amtrak on Three Routes
Author: Erik H.
Date: 08-04-2017 - 21:06
Margaret (SP fan) Wrote:
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> And providing for the common good -- in this case, long-distance passenger trains
I'll argue that we as a nation have a LOT of "needs" that rank much higher than long distance passenger trains. We have a massive homeless problem. Housing affordability. Good jobs. Healthcare.
If you want to use the argument that we should do things that are "common good", Amtrak **FAILS** that smell test like a methane factory next to a old school garbage dump next to a mega-dairy next to a copper smelter. Amtrak's long distance trains are **NOT** a need by any definition; else, explain the tens of millions of Americans that don't have Amtrak service, and have never had Amtrak service - and justify why they should be chosen to be ignored, just so Margaret can have her precious little train.
Government shouldn't pick winners and losers. It serves all, or it serves none. If you want to continue Amtrak as a "public need", then you better come up with a plan to nationalize all airlines and bus companies too, so that EACH American has fair and equal access to intercity transportation as a right. Not just those lucky enough to live next to a train station.
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> And providing for the common good -- in this case, long-distance passenger trains
I'll argue that we as a nation have a LOT of "needs" that rank much higher than long distance passenger trains. We have a massive homeless problem. Housing affordability. Good jobs. Healthcare.
If you want to use the argument that we should do things that are "common good", Amtrak **FAILS** that smell test like a methane factory next to a old school garbage dump next to a mega-dairy next to a copper smelter. Amtrak's long distance trains are **NOT** a need by any definition; else, explain the tens of millions of Americans that don't have Amtrak service, and have never had Amtrak service - and justify why they should be chosen to be ignored, just so Margaret can have her precious little train.
Government shouldn't pick winners and losers. It serves all, or it serves none. If you want to continue Amtrak as a "public need", then you better come up with a plan to nationalize all airlines and bus companies too, so that EACH American has fair and equal access to intercity transportation as a right. Not just those lucky enough to live next to a train station.
