“I am committed to supporting our nation’s public transportation systems and ensuring a safer, more accessible and better-connected America,” Molinaro said in a statement following the vote. 

Molinaro served one term in the House of Representatives from 2023 to 2024 as a Republican representing New York's 19th district, which stretches from the Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes. He lost his bid for reelection last November. Molinaro was a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee during his time in the House, and sponsored a bill aimed at supporting Amtrak station compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Industry groups including the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), Transport Workers Union of America (TWU), Associated General Contractors of New York State and American Council of Engineering Companies of New York supported Molinaro’s nomination. 

“He understands that modern, reliable public transportation is not only vital to mobility but also critical to economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness,” said Paul Skoutelas, president of APTA, in a statement. 

And the TWU said in a post on social media that it expects Molinaro will make workers the “top priority” at FTA. The union added that it is “looking forward to working with him to advance our shared goals of safety and economic gains for transit workers.”

With Molinaro confirmed as FTA administrator, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation said in a statement that Acting Administrator Tariq Bokhari is now transitioning to a deputy administrator role.