The prospects of the proposed Class I rail carrier merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern appear to be closer to coming to fruition are picking up steam. Another reason is that the deal has garnered support from The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers—Transportation Division (SMART-TD), the largest rail union in North America, representing more than 100,00 workers. “Today, we can say with confidence that the biggest railroad and the biggest rail union in America are breaking new ground,” said Ferguson. On the other end, there has been a fair amount of pushback from rail shipper groups in regards to this proposed merger. And it added that enhanced freight rail competition is essential for producing more goods in America, growing rail volumes and maintaining U.S. leadership in global trade.