We have relatives due to visit mid-month in March. They plan to take Amtrak from Texas to Chicago, then the Empire Builder to Seattle. I have two questions for which I'd very much appreciate any help from those who may have knowledge about them.

First, is No.7 generally fairly good at keeping to its schedule (arrival in Seattle)? Second (and I don't like even bringing it up, but it's probably relevant these days): Has Amtrak had problems with bed bugs on sleepers, as many high-quality hotels have had recently?

After boosting Amtrak as a great way to travel and see the country, I'd sure hate to have my not-so-young relatives encounter hitchhikers during their trip!