So, one thing I am for nationalization is the railroads (but not the train operators). I say treat them the same way as we treat roads.
Not sure that's the answer, the Feds can run Amtrak. I can't see where that failure warrants gaining responsibility.
What we need to Trust Busting again. These monopolies of international Corporations have gotten too big, and its too easy for them to buy all the politicians, which makes it citizens against the Elites.
Well, if it was up to me I would disbar Amtrak at the same time. I think it make since for the government to build and maintain the infrastructure while private companies operate the trains.
Yeah I don’t know about that. The tracks aren’t the problem. The operator (Norfolk-Southern) gutted their maintenance people.
Tracks are the problem, or more precisely track ownership. There is no competition, that is why a company like Norfolk-Southern can justify gutting their maintenance staff, they don't have to compete. They own the tracks, and don't have to allow competition to use it. In order for new competition to come about they need the upfront investment to build out rail lines which is prohibitively expensive.
While I do identify as being mostly libertarian, one thing I do disagree with them on is roads. I do not believe private companies would just build most roads. The profits just wouldn't be there. I think rail is proof of this. If you remove the largest cost of rail from the equation it suddenly becomes a lot easier for competition to form.
This entire disaster shows how closely tied big corporations and govt are.
How both will gladly see you dead.
Yeah I think it’s safe to do away with the idea of elected government being ‘in charge’ of anything. Better to operate under the assumption that we’re ruled by the corporatocracy now.
This entire disaster shows how closely tied big corporations and govt are.
How both will gladly see you dead.
Yeah I think it’s safe to do away with the idea of elected government being ‘in charge’ of anything. Better to operate under the assumption that we’re ruled by the corporatocracy now.
__________ 
