High-profile chemical spills on rails, roads prompt transport concerns
Washington PostNov 26, 2022
The Facts
After a Feb. 3 train derailment sparked a massive fire, causing residents to evacuate their homes, government officials of East Palestine, Ohio, organized a meeting to answer questions from concerned citizens on Wednesday. However, a notable absence from the transport company sparked outrage.
Representatives of the Norfolk Southern railway company, whose train carrying toxic chemicals caused the disaster, were supposed to answer questions at the meeting, but the company later backed out, citing security concerns.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
Ironically, Norfolk Southern, the company that exposed thousands of people to lethal chemicals, is claiming to be afraid for its security. After its toxic train derailment wreaked havoc on East Palestine and caused many residents to fear for their health, it has now added insult to injury by avoiding a simple town hall meeting. This is an egregious act of cowardice, and the people of northeast Ohio deserve better.
Pro-establishment narrative
Norfolk Southern is standing behind the people of East Palestine and is working with government officials to remedy the situation. While it's understandable that tensions are running high, the anger and threats directed toward company officials could result in violence. For that reason, Northern Southern was unable to attend the town hall meeting.
