"A seamless coast-to-coast rail network would strengthen supply chains, reduce transportation costs, and help keep the American economy moving."

"A combined network supports our national interests by strengthening the supply chain and keeping costs low for American consumers. America needs bold infrastructure solutions, and this merger has the potential to be one of them."

"A seamless transcontinental rail network is not just a transportation investment, it is a strategic economic opportunity for Illinois and North America. This opportunity is especially critical for U.S.–Mexico trade. Mexico is Illinois’ second, largest export market, and nearshoring is rapidly accelerating cross-border commerce in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction materials. Strengthening rail connectivity across the continent would reinforce north–south trade corridors, reduce costly bottlenecks, and provide Illinois businesses with faster, more reliable access to Mexican markets. At the same time, it would help secure and modernize North American supply chains at a moment when resilience and competitiveness matter more than ever."

"The UP-NS merger would open new market opportunities by better connecting the Midwest to the rest of the country. As a market-based, privately funded solution...it deserves support."

"Today, fragmented rail networks and inefficiencies that disproportionately burden small businesses. Shipments often require interline transfers between railroads, which can lead to delays, increased handling costs, and reduced reliability. A unified UP-NS network would create more seamless, single-line service across the country. For small businesses, that translates into faster transit times, fewer disruptions, and more predictable delivery schedules."

“This is about giving farmers more control and greater flexibility,” added Gov. Pillen. “Whether it’s responding to weather, adapting to shifting export demand or managing tight harvest windows, better rail service leads to better outcomes.”

“A seamless, coast-to-coast railroad will deliver faster, more reliable service andeliminate costly handoffs between carriers.”

“This is about whether the United States is serious about competing in a global economy where speed, reliability, and scale matter,” said Heath Mello, President & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. “Since the beginning, Union Pacific and Omaha have grown together, with a shared history rooted in building connections that power our economy. Today as always, Omaha stands firmly behind Union Pacific as they make their biggest move yet that will strengthen our supply chains, support business growth, and will ultimately benefit all Americans.”

“A more seamless, connected rail network has the potential to enhance reliability, reduce friction in the movement of goods, and improve service for businesses that depend on rail,” Williams said. “For many industries, efficient freight movement is a key determinant in where they invest and how they grow.”

“As Waller County Judge and committed community member, I am always supportive of efforts that strengthen our local economy and create opportunities for our residents. This transaction is an investment not just in railroads, but in people — in the workers, families, and small communities that form the backbone of Texas manufacturing. It will help support union, family-wage jobs and encourage continued growth in communities like Katy, Brookshire, Pattison, Prairie View, Waller, Pine Island and Hempstead.”

"The UP-NS merger would be a great step to giving WI farmers and manufacturers access to more markets."

"I support this merger and urge federal regulators to do the same — because when goods move efficiently, our industries grow stronger and the entire country benefits."