"Because the companies have minimal overlap, the merger would expand routing options and eliminate interchange delays—particularly for freight moving to key export terminals on both coasts. ...It delivers exactly what Georgia needs: more capacity, less congestion, stronger domestic industry and a competitive advantage that will benefit our state for decades to come."

"[T]he combined rail system would offer something our business community has been asking for: reliability... A more dependable rail network means companies can plan with greater precision, suppliers can manage logistics with fewer surprises and transportation partners can commit to schedules with increased confidence... A more integrated, efficient rail system will help South Carolina businesses compete, help consumers by keeping costs lower and help our state maintain the strong economic momentum we’ve built over the past decade. A stronger rail network means a stronger South Carolina, and that is a future we should fully support."

“A combined rail network stretching from coast to coast would offer more reliable service and shorter shipping times for the agricultural products that sustain our region. For our co-op and producers who depend on timely rail movement, those improvements would mean lower costs, fewer delays and a more efficient path to buyers across the country.”

"...[E]fficient and reliable rail service is vital to the prosperity of our local economy, businesses and residents. The proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger presents a significant opportunity to strengthen these connections and deliver lasting economic and community benefits for my district and the nation."

“Odessa stands to gain a lot from the improved rail connectivity this merger would deliver. Local businesses will enjoy faster, more reliable access to national and international markets—spurring job creation, boosting exports and attracting new investment to our region. While UP already maintains a strong presence throughout Texas, joining forces with NS would unlock new opportunities for Odessa’s long-term growth and competitiveness. In short, this merger strengthens the backbone of our local economy.”

"[T]his merger won’t take opportunities away—it will expand them. It will grow our nation’s rail workforce and opening doors for groups like veterans who deserve meaningful, high-skilled work. Railroad workers aren’t the only ones who stand to gain from this merger. A unified, single-line rail service would open new domestic and international markets for Missouri’s businesses, making it easier to move products faster and farther than ever before."

"Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern already lead the way in innovation—from real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance to advanced signaling systems that prevent accidents before they happen. Together, UP-NS can build a safer, more efficient network that keeps freight—and Georgia’s economy—moving... [T]his proposal is about modernization, not consolidation. Norfolk Southern has long been part of Macon’s economy, and Union Pacific brings a strong record of innovation and reliable service. Together, they have invested roughly $300 million over the past five years in workforce training, safety programs and community projects. Combining their strengths will make the system more resilient without sacrificing jobs or local partnerships."

“This merger isn’t about making something new just for the sake of being new. It’s about strengthening existing supply chains, improving rail safety and helping the Mid-South grow even faster in the coming years. By uniting the strengths of two of America’s most historic railroads, the merger will modernize infrastructure, boost operational reliability and expand the network that transports much of the freight vital to our region’s economy. For West Memphis and Marion, two cities at the center of the country's logistics corridor, this is significant. Our region is already a key crossroads, with access to interstates, the river and Class I railroads. The merger will strengthen that advantage at a time when major companies, from technology to manufacturing to distribution, are looking southward and inland for their next expansion.”

"Georgia already benefits from the reach of Norfolk Southern.... A merger with Union Pacific would seamlessly integrate these existing NS connections with UP’s extensive western network, giving Georgia manufacturers the ability to reach markets across the entire North American continent—not just within the eastern United States. ...As someone committed to advancing Gainesville’s and Georgia’s long-term economic growth, I view the UP-NS merger as a pivotal opportunity. By increasing shipping capabilities, decreasing bottlenecks and delivery costs, and easing highway congestion, a transcontinental railroad would help Georgia solidify its role as a premier hub for manufacturing and logistics."

"As both the Mayor of Augusta and a small business owner, I see every day how our city’s growth depends on connections between employers and workers, between products and markets, and between Augusta, the state of Georgia and the nation as a whole. The UP-NS merger would strengthen those ties, creating a more efficient coast-to-coast supply chain that lowers costs for businesses and families alike. When goods move faster and more reliably by rail, manufacturers save on shipping, businesses avoid delays and customers benefit from affordable prices."

"Improved coordination between the two rail networks would enhance service reliability, reduce congestion and expand market reach for businesses in and around Falls City. More efficient freight service means our agricultural producers, manufacturers and distributors can remain competitive in both domestic and international markets."

"Railroads have already proven to be a win for Georgia’s economy, and the UP-NS merger would build on that success. ...A single-line rail service stretching from the East to West Coasts would allow Georgia manufacturers to move goods more efficiently and at a lower cost. Fewer interchanges in the supply chain would reduce delays, shorten transit times and bolster businesses' operations statewide. …By supporting this merger, we ensure our state—and our country—remain at the forefront of growth, connectivity and opportunity for generations to come."

“When rail companies work more efficiently, communities like ours benefit. Jobs are created, infrastructure improves and local economies grow. This is why I hope the Surface Transportation Board will approve the Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger.”

“The bottom line is simple: This merger transforms South Carolina from a regional player into a global gateway. With this historic opportunity before us, it's time to put our state on track for a stronger, more connected future.”

"I respectfully urge the [STB] to give full and favorable consideration to this proposal, recognizing the significant economic development opportunities it will create for rural and small-town Nebraska, particularly in communities like Fremont that are working to build world-class logistics infrastructure."

“The proposed merger offers a unique opportunity to strengthen this network by delivering tangible benefits for shippers, consumers and communities. ...More direct routes and greater operational flexibility will help prevent service disruptions and improve schedule dependability. Eliminating certain interchanges will speed the movement of goods, helping our businesses reach customers faster and more competitively. The broader geographic footprint will open new markets for Nebraska products and strengthen supply chain resilience. This merger is about more than just railroads—it is about securing the future of our transportation network, supporting economic development and ensuring American freight rail remains globally competitive.”

“As a Mayor in DFW whose community depends on how these goods are delivered, I believe it is critical we seize opportunities that grow our economy, improve quality of life and secure Texas’s future for decades to come. The Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger is one of those opportunities.
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Let’s keep Texas—and America—on the right track.”

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"Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern continue to be pillars of our national freight infrastructure. Their commitment to safety, innovation, and efficiency plays a vital role in driving Nebraska's economy forward. As a Public Service Commissioner, I greatly appreciate their efforts in growing strong rail connectivity across our State and Nation."

"This historic announcement by [Norfolk Southern] is great news for Georgia’s growing economy and expanding logistics network. A transcontinental railroad is essential for the future of moving goods across America. This partnership will create jobs, while increasing accessibility for Georgia businesses shipping goods. I want to applaud everyone who made this possible and look forward to seeing these plans come to fruition."

"For decades, [Norfolk Southern] has played a critical role in the success of our state’s #1 industry - helping Georgia farmers get their products to markets across the country and around the globe. We are excited to see their continued growth and success and to continue to build on the strong relationship between our state and NS."

“Congratulations to Union Pacific and its entire team on their announcement to acquire the great Norfolk Southern Railway, forming the nation’s first unified transcontinental rail system. President Abraham Lincoln envisioned a railroad extending to the Pacific Ocean, and he chose Omaha as its starting point. UP has been building America ever since, and Nebraska has become a centrally-located national transportation hub along the way. The State of Nebraska looks forward to supporting this tremendous partnership, and we are proud to host America’s First Transcontinental Railroad.”

"Union Pacific is an engine for growth in Nebraska. Consolidating another railroad company’s headquarters at the Union Pacific headquarters in Omaha will benefit our state even more. This has the potential to create jobs, increase wages, and streamline the supply chain. This merger is a great deal for Nebraska and America."

"Headquartered in Omaha and employing over 5,000 Nebraskans, Union Pacific plays a crucial role in our state’s economy. This merger not only has the potential to create many more jobs, but it will also provide seamless transcontinental service. I look forward to seeing the growth that will come to our state as a result of this crucial partnership."

“We would welcome any future employees from the combined railroads to settle in Omaha.”