President Biden is speaking Friday from East Palestine, Ohio. It’s been more than a year since a Norfolk Southern train derailed in the area, releasing toxic chemicals used in plastic manufacturing.
Biden has been criticized by Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, who visited the area immediately after the disaster, for not visiting the area sooner.
The White House noted that Environmental Protection Agency personnel were immediately dispatched to the area and ordered a follow-up investigation to assist with recovery. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Friday called on Congress to take action on a rail safety bill introduced by Ohio Sens. Sherrod Brown (D) and J.D. Vance (R) in response to the derailment.
At Friday’s press conference, Biden is expected to reiterate his commitment to holding Norfolk South accountable.
He is scheduled to speak at 4:45 p.m. ET.
Watch the live video above.
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