It has little to do with geography and everything to do with the auto industry. They don't want to allow public transportation as government-sponsored way to reduce the profits of the auto industry.
The light and high speed rail companies put on a very good dog and pony show to representatives. They shower them with money, explain the economic incentives and all sorts of other items. The government will then actively try to sell it to the tax base. Any person speaking out against it is called as a Luddite or sponsored by the oil industry (although these are contrived, as they are actually representatives of a economic think tank). The head winds for rail is always heavily supported by a directly benefiting industry. So, I am genuinely interested in your source for the automotive statement you made. Also, please do not use l up the unproven "conspiracy" from prior to world war 2.