In a statement, Gardner said, “I am stepping down as CEO to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration.” Prior to taking the top role at the firm, he served as Amtrak’s chief operating and commercial officer starting in 2009 and as the organization’s president starting in 2020.

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner is stepping down from his position to “to ensure that Amtrak continues to enjoy the full faith and confidence of this administration.”

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner abruptly resigned from his top post at the U.S. passenger railroad this week. Wednesday's announcement signaled that the leadership change came down to Amtrak maintaining support from U.