U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg’s comments about a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, have been called “misinformation” by a member of Biden’s administration.
On Tuesday, Buttigieg incorrectly stated he was “constrained by law on some areas of rail regulation” and referred to a braking rule that was withdrawn in 2018 under the Trump administration. Social media users circulated his claims, which blamed Trump for the train derailment in Ohio.
However, the National Transportation Safety Board Chair, Jennifer Homendy, refuted the false claim and requested that the public “stop spreading misinformation.”
Homendy clarified that the ECP braking rule would have only applied to “high hazard flammable trains,” whereas the train that derailed contained only 3 placarded Class 3 flammable liquids cars.
Takeaways:
- U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg’s comments about a train derailment have been called “misinformation” by a member of Biden’s administration.
- Social media users circulated his claims, blaming Trump for the train derailment in Ohio.
- National Transportation Safety Board Chair, Jennifer Homendy, clarified that the ECP braking rule would have only applied to “high hazard flammable trains.”
- The train that derailed contained only 3 placarded Class 3 flammable liquids cars, which would not have applied to the ECP braking rule even if it had gone into effect.
- Some residents still have concerns regarding the EPA’s claims about the water being safe to drink.
Commentary:
This article highlights how misinformation can easily spread on social media, especially during a crisis, leading to confusion and distress among the affected people. It is important to verify information before sharing it with others, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like disasters.
Additionally, it is concerning that some residents are still fearful and do not trust the EPA’s claims that the water is safe to drink. This highlights the need for better communication and transparency from authorities during crises to reassure the public and avoid further panic. Finally, while the Republican viewpoint may differ, it is important for both parties to come together to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people.