In The News

The American people expect their transportation systems and services to be safe, reliable, and used for their intended purposes not as conduits for illegal immigration, havens for rising crime, or targets for organized cargo theft. Yet America’s rail system has faced scrutiny over all these issues, raising serious concerns about public safety and accountability. The Trump administration has successfully prioritized border security — enforcing strong policies like the Remain in Mexico program — but new vulnerabilities have emerged that must be addressed to prevent further exploitation. Federal funding mechanisms, such as FEMA’s Shelter and Services Program (SSP), provide grants to local governments and nonprofit organizations to cover migrant transportation costs, including train fares. According to government reports, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) spent approximately $1 million on migrant travel in FY2021 using federal aid, with funds supporting bus, train, and plane tickets for migrants traveling to cities across the U.S.

In 2022, my Republican colleagues raised alarms that the Biden administration might use Amtrak to transport illegal aliens. Lawmakers specifically pointed to Amtrak’s Sunset Limited route, which runs along the southern border, as a potential corridor for moving migrants inland. The Biden administration refused to answer my colleagues’ inquiries, further fueling suspicions about the potential misuse of Amtrak for illegal migrant transport. This lack of transparency raises serious concerns about national security and public safety.

Beyond concerns over illegal immigration and the potential use of federal funds for migrant transport, Amtrak has experienced a troubling rise in crime, further straining the integrity of the rail system. In recent years, violent crime and drug trafficking have increased on the rail system, placing law-abiding passengers and employees at risk.

According to recent reports, incidents of assaults, drug-related offenses, and other crimes on Amtrak trains and station are on the rise. The uptick in crime highlights the need for stronger enforcement and efforts to restore law and order. Failing to address these issues puts every American passenger at risk. A transportation system like Amtrak that lacks proper oversight becomes vulnerable, not only to misuse for migrant transport, but also to criminal activity that threatens passengers and employees alike.

This is not just about Amtrak. America’s railroads have seen a dramatic increase in cargo theft, posing a major threat to commerce and supply chain security. Industry experts estimate that over 65,000 thefts occurred in 2024, a roughly 40% increase from 2023. These thefts not only result in millions of dollars in losses but also disrupt business with operational delays to repair or replace damaged infrastructure.

The combination of these issues paints a disturbing picture of a system that is failing the American people. If America’s passenger and cargo rail system continues to operate without addressing these serious concerns, it will remain a tool for illegal activity rather than a trusted mode of transportation for goods, American families and the workforce. Addressing these challenges requires a robust strategy to protect the safety and integrity of America’s transportation systems.

As chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, it is my priority to ensure that America’s rail system operates safely and responsibly. The American people deserve a transportation system that is secure, accountable, and not exploited for political or criminal purposes.

My colleagues and I will work closely with President Trump and his administration to implement stronger oversight, ensure transparency in federal funding, demand that Amtrak prioritizes the safety of its passengers, and encourage coordination of law enforcement to prosecute criminal operations. We will take decisive action to prevent misuse of taxpayer resources, crack down on rising crime, and restore integrity to our national rail system. The American people deserve nothing less than a transportation system that reflects the values of security, efficiency, and accountability. I am committed to making that a reality.

Rep. Daniel Webster represents Florida’s 11th congressional district. He is a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee where he also serves as chairman of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials.