Pence's Think Tank Opposes Rail Safety Bill for East Palestine

Former VP's group sides with industry over victims of toxic train disaster

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Mike Pence's non-profit organization, Advancing American Freedom, is opposing a bill championed by former Ohio Senator JD Vance that would implement new safety regulations for trains carrying hazardous materials. This bill could have prevented the 2023 train derailment and toxic spill that upended the lives of thousands in East Palestine, Ohio. Conservatives have harshly criticized Pence for siding with wealthy donors and industry groups over the needs of the East Palestine community.

Why it matters

The East Palestine disaster highlighted the need for stronger rail safety regulations to protect communities from the risks of hazardous material spills. By opposing this legislation, Pence's think tank is putting the interests of corporate donors ahead of public safety and the wellbeing of East Palestine residents.

The details

Advancing American Freedom, along with the Competitive Enterprise Institute, organized a group of think tank leaders who wrote to Congress on January 29 opposing the inclusion of the Railway Safety Act 'in any surface transportation reauthorization legislation.' This comes despite bipartisan support for the bill introduced by Senator Vance, a likely 2028 primary opponent of Pence. The bill has still not become law, three years after the East Palestine disaster.

  • The East Palestine train derailment and toxic spill occurred in 2023.
  • Senator Vance introduced legislation to address the issue shortly after the disaster.
  • On January 29, 2026, Pence's think tank organized opposition to the Railway Safety Act.

The players

Mike Pence

Former Vice President of the United States who now leads the non-profit organization Advancing American Freedom, which is opposing rail safety legislation.

JD Vance

Former Ohio Senator who introduced legislation to implement new safety regulations for trains carrying hazardous materials, in response to the East Palestine disaster.

Advancing American Freedom

A non-profit organization led by Mike Pence that is lobbying against the Railway Safety Act.

Competitive Enterprise Institute

A think tank that joined Advancing American Freedom in organizing opposition to the Railway Safety Act.

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What they’re saying

“No one is surprised that Mike Pence is opposing the Trump/Vance administration. So telling.”

— ALX, MAGA Personality (X)

“I realize Pence is a bit Trump deranged, but seriously, why is he trying to stop the Trump admin from delivering for the poor people in East Palestine after that train explosion? Like what on earth would possess him to do that?? Oh, right. Because TDS is an incurable disease that makes people do insane things.”

— Ned Ryun, CEO, American Majority (X)

What’s next

The Railway Safety Act continues to be debated in Congress, with Trump and Vance remaining vocal supporters. The outcome of this legislation will determine whether the needs of East Palestine residents or the interests of corporate donors take priority.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the growing divide within the Republican party, as figures like Pence prioritize establishment donors over the concerns of Trump's base. It raises questions about whether the GOP will truly champion the working-class voters it has courted, or if it will revert to serving the interests of wealthy special interests.