Ralph Vartabedian

Colleen Shalby, a transportation writer for the Los Angeles Times, joins Ralph Vartabedian, a veteran independent journalist on California's high-speed rail. They delve into the project's long history and ongoing controversies, including federal funding cuts and legal battles. The discussion highlights the ambitious budget overruns and the shifting public perception, illustrating the complexities of advancing this vital transportation initiative. They also weigh California's efforts against European models, shedding light on potential paths forward.