Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the High Speed Rail Authority is taking legal action against the Trump administration. The lawsuit challenges the termination of $4 billion in federal grants, which were designated for California’s high-speed rail project.
The lawsuit claims that the termination was politically motivated, driven by President Trump’s personal dislike for California and its rail project. “Trump’s termination of federal grants for California high-speed rail reeks of politics,” stated Governor Newsom. He further described it as a political maneuver aimed at punishing California.
Newsom emphasized the impact on jobs and livelihoods in the Central Valley, highlighting the ongoing construction work across 171 miles, including more than 50 major railway structures. Significant progress has been made with environmental reviews completed for 463 miles from Los Angeles to the Bay Area, electrification of Caltrain, and over 15,000 jobs created.
The high-speed rail is central to Governor Newsom’s agenda to accelerate infrastructure upgrades and job creation throughout California. Passenger service is anticipated between 2030 and 2033.
