Newsom addresses termination of funds for California high-speed rail

Governor Gavin Newsom has responded to the Trump administration's decision to terminate federal grant agreements funding California's high-speed rail project. Newsom stated that the state is considering all options to counter this action.

The project, which is currently in the track-laying phase, involves active construction across 171 miles and includes over 50 major railway structures. Governor Newsom emphasized California's commitment to continuing the project despite federal opposition.

"Trump wants to hand China the future and abandon the Central Valley. We won’t let him," said Governor Newsom. He highlighted that California is ahead of other projects like Texas high-speed rail and reiterated their determination to fight what he termed as an illegal action.

Earlier this year, Governor Newsom joined Ian Choudri, CEO of California High Speed Rail Authority, along with local leaders and workers near Bakersfield for a groundbreaking ceremony at the railhead. This step allows for track laying after completing land acquisition, environmental clearances, and necessary infrastructure such as bridges and viaducts.

Ian Choudri commented on the situation saying, “Canceling these grants without cause isn’t just wrong — it’s illegal.” He pointed out that these are legally binding agreements confirmed by federal reviews as recently as February 2025. The high-speed rail project has created 15,500 jobs and completed significant infrastructure work.

In recent developments over the past year, environmental reviews covering 463 miles from Los Angeles to the Bay Area have been completed. Other advancements include Caltrain electrification completion, trainset selection underway, station construction planning, collaboration with partner rail systems for a regional network, and job creation exceeding 15,000 positions. Passenger service is anticipated between 2030 and 2033.

High-speed rail forms a crucial part of Governor Newsom’s agenda aimed at delivering infrastructure upgrades while generating employment across California.