Amtrak’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Gardner, announced his resignation on Wednesday in response to the Trump administration’s threats to reduce funding for mass transit and transportation projects nationwide.
Gardner stated, “I am stepping down as CEO to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration.” As of now, no successor has been publicly named for his position at the passenger railroad company.
Gardner’s resignation follows President Donald Trump and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s remarks, which have caused concern among transit agencies due to potential federal funding retractions from significant projects that do not conform to the new regulations and mandates. The White House is currently challenging New York City’s congestion pricing plan, and Secretary Duffy has recently initiated a review of California’s high-speed rail project.
Amtrak, a for-profit company with numerous federal ties, typically appoints board members through presidential nominations, one of whom is the transportation secretary.
The company has been under scrutiny by lawmakers for inconsistent transit services. While former President Joe Biden committed billions to the Northeast Corridor, mainly operated by Amtrak, for infrastructure upgrades and service improvements, Trump and House Republicans have suggested reducing Amtrak’s federal subsidy by up to 50% during his first term.
Elon Musk, serving as Trump’s adviser and the de-facto head of the Department of Government Efficiency, has speculated about privatizing Amtrak, criticizing its service as inferior compared to high-speed rail systems in other countries.
Recently, leadership changes have occurred in numerous transportation agencies since Trump assumed office. Notably, New Jersey Transit CEO Kevin Corbett and Chicago Transit Authority head Dorval Carter both resigned in January.
Gardner has led the U.S. passenger railroad since 2022 and began his career at the corporation as an intern 16 years ago, according to his statement.
Amtrak’s board expressed its intentions by stating, “We look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary Duffy as we build the world-class passenger rail system this country deserves,” amidst the transition.
