Tennessee Railway Conductor Fired for Anti-Immigrant Remarks
During a Fourth of July ride on Chattanooga’s Incline Railway, a seasonal conductor delivered remarks over the loudspeaker that were captured on video and subsequently went viral. The conductor stated, “To the rest of you, welcome to the greatest country on the face of the planet, and if you disagree, you can leave.” Following the incident, the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) swiftly terminated the employee. CARTA acknowledged the conductor’s failure to follow protocol and common decency, emphasizing that rudeness toward guests is contrary to the role of a conductor. While the conductor was dismissed with cause, CARTA indicated a possibility of rehire following an open dialogue, aiming for the employee’s improvement.
John Q. Hosedrinker