Obama Calls for Greater Infrastructure Spending in Wake of Amtrak Crash

"President Barack Obama on Thursday called for greater federal spending on infrastructure in the wake of the deadly Amtrak crash that killed eight people.

Obama's comments, in which he also offered his condolences to the victim's families, came amid scrutiny over whether enough was being done to ensure safety on the publically funded rail service.

'Until we know for certain what caused this tragedy, I just want to reiterate what I have already said: That we are a growing country, with a growing economy,' Obama said at a Camp David press conference. 'We need to invest in the infrastructure that keeps up that way and not just when something bad happens like a bridge collapse or a train derailment but all the time. That's what great nations do."

Jeremy Diamond, Deirdre Walsh, and Athena Jones report for CNN May 14, 2015.

SEE ALSO:

"After the Amtrak Crash, It’s Time to Get Serious About Transportation Infrastructure" (New Yorker)

"Train Derailment Highlights Amtrak's Infrastructure Needs" (NPR)

"John Boehner: ‘Stupid’ To Link Amtrak Cuts To Philly Derailment" (Politico)