“The fishing industry depends on specialized materials, too many of which come from overseas. The products I make, including modern bass tackle, rely on tungsten, and China produces roughly 83 percent of the world’s supply. Many of the premium hooks our industry depends on are manufactured in Japan. Before those materials become finished products, they travel thousands of miles through ports, railroads, and distribution networks. A seamless freight network would help those materials move more efficiently, allowing American manufacturers to scale production, fill orders faster, and get more products into more customers’ hands.”

"The creation of the first truly transcontinental rail network would give Iowa direct, seamless access to markets from coast to coast. Fewer interchange points mean fewer delays. Less congestion in the system means more predictable shipping for our producers and manufacturers. That kind of reliability matters enormously when attracting new business investment or helping an existing company scale."

"A true transcontinental network will make American industry far more competitive and cost-efficient. The companies’ analysis suggests that when shippers have access to single-line service, they are significantly more likely to move freight by rail rather than truck. That is good for manufacturers, exporters, and for supply chain reliability that keeps store shelves stocked. It is also good for the nation’s highways."

"American consumers don't care whether freight moves on one railroad or two. They care about affordable prices and stocked shelves."

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

"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."

“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."