[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E154]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO BRUNO MAESTRI

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 23, 2026

  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a 
dedicated public servant and steadfast champion of America's 
transportation system, Mr. Bruno Maestri, on his retirement from Amtrak 
on January 30, 2026. After decades of distinguished service in the 
railroad industry and in the halls of government, Bruno Maestri leaves 
behind a legacy defined by integrity, bipartisanship, and an unwavering 
commitment to strengthening our Nation's passenger network.
  I have known Bruno for many years, and I can say without hesitation 
that he is a gentleman in a town where that is not always a common or 
easy attribute. His professionalism, humility, and steady demeanor have 
earned him the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle and 
throughout the transportation community.
  Since joining Amtrak in 2019 as Vice President for Government Affairs 
and Corporate Communications, Bruno has led the company's federal, 
state, and community outreach with exceptional skill and integrity. He 
strengthened relationships with key stakeholders, including the freight 
railroads over which many of Amtrak's routes operate, and ensured that 
the voice of America's Railroad was heard clearly and constructively 
across all levels of government. His thoughtful engagement elevated 
Amtrak's national reputation and reinforced its public service mission.
  Bruno has been instrumental in representing Amtrak before both the 
legislative and executive branches. His ability to build trusted, 
bipartisan relationships has been essential to advancing the company's 
priorities. During his tenure, Amtrak secured historic levels of public 
investment--resources now modernizing infrastructure, expanding 
service, and improving safety and reliability for millions of 
passengers nationwide. These achievements will strengthen passenger 
rail for decades to come.
  He also played a pivotal role in raising the visibility of passenger 
rail as a vital component of America's transportation network. Working 
closely with policymakers and community leaders, Bruno championed 
efforts to expand and enhance service so that Americans in both urban 
and rural communities could benefit from a more modern and connected 
rail system.
  During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bruno's 
steady leadership proved indispensable. In a time of uncertainty, he 
ensured clear and consistent communication with employees, customers, 
policymakers, and partners. His work helped guide Amtrak through one of 
the most difficult periods in the history of the transportation 
industry and positioned the company for recovery.
  Prior to joining Amtrak, Bruno served for 24 years in senior 
leadership roles at Norfolk Southern Corporation, overseeing federal 
and state government affairs and coordinating regulatory engagement 
with key agencies. His deep expertise and professionalism have long 
been recognized throughout the rail industry.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring 
Bruno Maestri as he embarks on his well-earned retirement. As Bruno 
begins this next chapter--spending more time with his family in 
Chincoteague and cheering on his beloved Washington Nationals--we thank 
him for a career marked by service, partnership, and perseverance.

                          ____________________