Reps. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Troy Carter (D-La.), and Cleo Fields (D-La.) are asking the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to not only consider the “tangible impact the [proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern] merger could have on the economy and transportation network, but also the intangible impact it could have on communities and people’s lives across the country.” They noted they are “hopeful, cautious, and open-minded” about what the transaction would mean for the country.
The Representatives’ Dec. 11 letter is one of many submitted in advance of STB’s evaluation of the yet-to-be-filed application for a merger combining UP and NS under common ownership and forming a U.S. transcontinental.
“With the commitments proposed to enhance safety, strengthen service for customers, and protect vital jobs, the newly combined company is taking accountability for the outcome of this potentially historic merger, which, if executed correctly, could enhance freight transportation options nationwide,” Thompson, Carter and Fields wrote.
The STB Office of Chief Counsel entered the letter from the undersigned into the public record on Dec. 12. Railway Age reproduces it in full below.
“Dear [STB] Chairman [Patrick J.] Fuchs:
“As Members of Congress, we are writing to express our growing interest in the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroads.
“We recognize that freight rail is vital to our states and the country’s economy, as it safely transports goods that drive our industries, support our farmers, and connect our communities to markets across the nation and around the world. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have long been essential transportation partners, linking people and strengthening communities, and creating a stronger, more competitive America by providing efficient, reliable, and cost-effective service to businesses large and small. At the same time, we recognize that any large-scale rail merger must be carefully reviewed to prevent service disruptions, protect workers, and enhance competition for shippers and communities.
“In our detailed discussions with Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, we have learned that the proposed merger could offer a unique opportunity to strengthen the newly combined company’s current rail network and deliver tangible benefits for shippers, consumers, and communities. Additionally, Union Pacific has made clear its commitment to continue improving safety, enhancing service, protecting workers, and investing in our communities. As this merger continues through the federal regulatory process, we will continue listening to those most impacted, asking meaningful questions, and will stand ready to assist in finding workable solutions that can lead us all to a more efficient, reliable, and competitive transportation network for our country.
“As the Surface Transportation Board reviews the proposed merger, we ask that it not only consider the tangible impact the merger could have on the economy and transportation network, but also the intangible impact it could have on communities and people’s lives across the country. With the commitments proposed to enhance safety, strengthen service for customers, and protect vital jobs, the newly combined company is taking accountability for the outcome of this potentially historic merger, which, if executed correctly, could enhance freight transportation options nationwide. As the Board reviews this matter, we encourage it to ensure that any approval includes transparency and clear accountability to protect workers, shippers, and local communities. Additionally, we hope the Board will ensure the proposed merger serves the public interest. We are hopeful, cautious, and open-minded about what this proposed merger means for the country.”
Further Reading:
- UP, NS Shareholders Greenlight Merger
- UP 3Q25: ‘Continued Improvements in Pursuit of What’s Possible’
- For NS 3Q25, ‘Strong Results’
- ASLRRA to Participate in STB Review of Proposed UP-NS Merger
- Is a UP-NS ‘Fix’ In? Don’t Bet on It!
- Why a Unified Rail Network Makes Sense
- A Rail Merger to Put America Back on Track
- UP’s Jalali: No Hiccups With NS IT Integration
- 64 Industry Organizations to the STB: ‘Proceed With Great Care’
- Ag-State Senators to STB: Be ‘Rigorous’ and ‘Comprehensive’
- BNSF vs. UP, Take Three
- Eliminating Paper Barriers is the Pro-Competitive Move
- Hoeven, Klobuchar to STB: ‘Closely Scrutinize’ UP+NS
- CPKC: UP+NS Merger ‘Not in the Public Interest’
