A Dem Get's It Right For Once, Vows To Block ALL Of Biden's Nominees
Montana Senator Jon Tester recently announced he would be blocking President Joe Biden's six nominees to the Amtrak Board of Directors, despite his previous vow to confirm them. This announcement has sparked controversy and criticism from Republicans, who are staunchly against Biden's public transportation policy.
Tester's decision to block the nominees was due to the fact that none of them were from the western portion of the United States. He argued that rural America needs a voice at Amtrak, and said:
"Amtrak is not only critical to Montana, but it’s critical to rural communities and economies across this entire country. And it’s important that folks in rural America have a voice at Amtrak to assure that we aren’t left behind. So after taking a look at the president’s slate of nominees and finding that not only are none of the six from the west, but that five are from the northeast corridor, I’ll be blocking these nominees until rural America has a seat at the table.”
Tester's decision to block the nominations has been met with harsh criticism from Republicans, who are staunchly against Biden's public transportation policy. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act included $58 billion for Amtrak, which Biden has strongly favored since he rode the train system as a senator.
The train system does not include lines in Wyoming, South Dakota, Hawaii, or Alaska, and has only one line in western states like North Dakota, Montana, and Nevada. This lack of infrastructure in rural areas has caused many to worry about the future of Amtrak in their areas.
Tester has been a strong advocate for rural America, and this move to block Biden's nominations is a way for him to give those areas a voice. However, this is not the first time he has gone against the President. He has previously voted against some of Biden's executive and judicial branch nominees, and has voiced his opinion on many of the President's policies.
I will be blocking the President's slate of nominees for the Amtrak Board of Directors until rural America is given their lawful seat at the table. pic.twitter.com/aDy5mISRSx
— Senator Jon Tester (@SenatorTester) April 25, 2023
It remains to be seen whether Tester's decision to block Biden's nominees will be successful, but it definitely shows a strong stance against the President's public transportation policy. It's a move that is sure to please many rural Americans, who have long felt neglected by their government.