Robert Primus, a Democratic board member of the Surface Transportation Board (STB), an independent federal regulatory agency, was fired, according to the White House and Primus. The STB is currently considering a proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern railroad companies.
Primus stated on LinkedIn that he received an email from the White House terminating him from his position without providing a reason. He mentioned that the reason given was that he was not aligned with their "America First" efforts. Primus countered that he had been pro-growth since joining the board, citing a major speech he gave on economic growth.
Primus was initially nominated to the STB by President Trump in 2020 and then renominated by President Biden in 2022, becoming chairman last year. The STB regulates freight rail and has five members, appointed to five-year terms. Patrick Fuchs was recently designated as the new chairman. With Primus' departure, the board now has only three members.
A White House spokesman stated that Primus was terminated because he did not align with the President's "America First" agenda. The administration plans to nominate new members. Primus responded that the White House provided no proof to support their claim and that, according to STB statutes, there must be cause for termination.
Primus described the firing as "deeply troubling and legally invalid" on LinkedIn. He noted that the termination occurred while the board is considering important matters affecting the national freight rail network and supply chain. Primus intends to continue his duties and is pursuing legal options to challenge his termination.
Primus acknowledged that his differing opinions on some of the administration's decisions, including his rejection of the Canada Pacific-Kansas City Southern railway companies merger in 2023, might have contributed to his termination. He stated that his independence in evaluating mergers, regardless of political affiliation, could have been a factor.
5 Comments
Bermudez
Not surprised at all! You either fall in line with the administration's vision, or you’re out.
Africa
Changing leadership like this harms consistency and efficient governance. It’s unsettling for investors and stakeholders alike!
Muchacho
It's hypocritical for Primus to say he’s “pro-growth” while standing against important mergers. Check your priorities!
Habibi
If he wasn’t aligned with “America First,” then maybe he didn’t belong there. The STB needs to prioritize American interests!
Comandante
Legal challenges are necessary sometimes! His case could highlight the dangers of politicizing important regulatory bodies.