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Ray LaHood Challenges the U.S. to "Be Big. Be Bold."

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood spoke yesterday at the The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) legislative conference where he encouraged Congress to "be bold", "be brave" when it comes to ideas for building America's infrastructure and rail systems.

"We've always been big and had bold ideas", said LaHood.


He praised President Obama for his vision of high speed rail and called out Congress for stalling the president's plan to improve the nation's existing railroads and building infrastructure here in America that would rival any foreign country's rail system.

"You all have been to China and have seen their railroads.  I'm sure when you return home you're scratching your head asking, "Why can't we do that?"

The U.S. ranks near the bottom of countries with sustainable or advanced rail systems.

During the conference's Q&A session LaHood, who is retiring this year, was asked what advice he would give to his successor.

"Get along with Congress", he replied.

The secretary's remarks, for which he garnered praise from attendees, begin at the 8:32 mark of the below video.

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