White House Transition
Trump DOT Pick Duffy Sails Through Confirmation Hearing
Duffy expressed support for infrastructure projects, including programs within the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Screenshot via Senate Commerce Committee
Former congressman Sean Duffy, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to head the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, navigated a smooth path through his Senate confirmation hearing on Jan.15, fielding questions on the range of issues that a DOT secretary would face, including some that deal with infrastructure.
Based on his positive reception by the lawmakers, Duffy seemed likely to clear the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee when the panel takes up his nomination in coming days. In fact, the committee has scheduled a vote on Duffy's nomination on January 22.
View hearing here.
Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) praised Duffy as "a dedicated public servant who is well qualified to lead this important department.”
Duffy also won plaudits from the other side of the aisle. Committee member Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D), a fellow Wisconsonite, said that she worked with him in the House on funding for a replacement for the 80-year old Stillwater bridge, which links Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Baldwin said that "at the end of the day, I am confident that Sean is the right person for this job in this upcoming administration.”
Duffy also provided signals about what the new administration’s transportation construction priorities would be.
In his opening statement before the committee, Duffy outlined some general themes, at least some of which echo statements Trump has made in recent weeks. He said Trump “wants to invest in rebuilding our nation’s crumbling infrastructure,” with a focus on “big, durable projects.”
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Duffy added that if confirmed, he would work to reduce red tape that slows critical infrastructure projects and also would ensure that funds are well spent.
Additionally, "We will craft clear regulations, which balance safety, innovation and cutting-edge technology, but always focused on safety.”
He added that joining with Trump and the DOT staff, “I would hope to usher a golden age of transportation and travel.”
The committee’s top Democrat, Sen. Maria Cantwell of Washington, asked Duffy whether he supports the funding programs in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Cantwell mentioned that $1.2-trillion measure's "Mega" and rail grade crossing programs
Duffy said he supported those programs, adding that they fit with the big projects that Trump advocates.
In the same vein, Cantwell also asked Duffy whether he would commit to help complete projects and continue their funding. She cited the Interstate-5 bridge between Washington and Oregon for which "the money has been out the door" and on its way to being put to work.
Duffy said, "One of the complaints I've heard from the committee is oftentimes the money is not moving fast enough. There's been questions about why it's taking so long. I'd love to work with you and make sure the money gets out the door to the projects that are underway."
Industry supporters
Duffy has received statements of support from industry and transportation groups, including the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; Association of State American Council of Engineering Companies; the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association; the Portland Cement Association; Airports Council International-North America; and American Association of Port Authorities.
Besides his stint in the House, Duffy also was a county prosecutor in Wisconsin and later was a Fox Business host.
