Its too slow.
HSR will never be faster under real world conditions. It was a snow job.
I enjoy taking the train, much more so than flying by an order of magnitude. My next trip to CA to visit family will be via train.
By the way: Most people have no idea how fast California trains travel. I was amazed.
I just wish they were run by responsible capitalists who would include commerce cars for the passengers: Restaurant, bar, etc. (perhaps even a party car) and let competition dictate prices, drive sales & help finance the operation.
Just like the airports do with static storefronts.