I justify the expense because the company suggests I utilize it and time is imprtant to them- generally speaking if it is just me speed is not as important. I am no liberal and as mentioned before, I work in finance. Many of my colleagues fly, I take the train because it is faster and saves money
As far as California rail- I am quite aware of the increase in Amtrak California nd the California cars, a more local version of the Superliner cars. I also know that capital corridor has done well, as well as an increase in what was the San Diegans(formerly Sante Fe) The Caltran commuter service in San Fran and the success of the "Baby Bullet" service.
If any place is in dire need of mass transit and rail-it's California There is no more room for roads, no room to expand airports.
As far as trains through camp pendelton- the San Diego rail service goes through there already- no?