USCTA Alert

January 28, 2025

The Senate today confirmed Sean Duffy to be the next Secretary of the Department of Transportation. The vote was 77 to 22. The move comes after the Senate on Saturday confirmed former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to head the Department of Homeland Security.
 
Duffy, a former representative from Wisconsin, is well-liked on both sides of the aisle. During his nomination hearing before the Senate Commerce Committee earlier this month, Duffy vowed to work with Republicans and Democrats to improve safety and address other transportation priorities.
 
Commerce Committee members also voiced their strong support for FAA Contract Tower Program, with many asking Duffy about the popular program during the hearing or in the questions they submitted for the record. Duffy told lawmakers that he understands the importance of the program and committed to support it.
 
Duffy also told lawmakers that he intends to implement the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and get money “out the door faster for these really important projects….” However, he will be taking over DOT at a time when the administration is calling for a temporary pause of federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance, raising questions from lawmakers and stakeholders alike.