The Senate has officially confirmed former Wisconsin Congressman Sean Duffy as the new Secretary of Transportation, marking a significant step in shaping the nation’s infrastructure policies under President Donald Trump’s administration. Duffy, who previously served five terms in the House before transitioning to a media role at Fox News, secured his new position with strong bipartisan support—77 senators voted in favor, including two dozen Democrats, while 22 opposed his nomination.
During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee earlier this month, Duffy laid out his vision for the Department of Transportation. His priorities include modernizing aviation and highway safety, addressing the ongoing air traffic controller shortage, and restoring global confidence in Boeing after a series of high-profile controversies.
Former Congressman and Fox Business host Sean Duffy, a devout Catholic and father of nine, has been confirmed as the Transportation Secretary. pic.twitter.com/nxfhBkpt9Y
— Sachin Jose (@Sachinettiyil) January 29, 2025
Duffy emphasized the vital role that transportation plays in Americans’ daily lives. “No federal agency impacts Americans’ daily lives and loved ones like the Department of Transportation,” he stated. His commitment to strengthening air traffic control systems and integrating cutting-edge technologies aligns with broader efforts to enhance national transportation safety and efficiency.
Breaking: In his first action, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy axed Biden’s CAFE fuel economy standards that were seen by critics as a de facto EV mandate.
Duffy said the rules had “needlessly driven up the cost of a car in order to push a radical Green New Deal agenda.” pic.twitter.com/5R1kr6FFi2
— Thomas Catenacci (@ThomasCatenacci) January 29, 2025
One of Duffy’s immediate challenges will be overseeing the rebuilding of Interstate 40, a crucial highway stretching from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Barstow, California. Large sections of the highway remain washed out in the Great Smoky Mountains due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene in September. Lawmakers stressed the urgency of the project, and Duffy assured them that it would be a top priority.
Beyond highways, Duffy also committed to ensuring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continues its investigation into Tesla’s self-driving software. The probe, which began earlier this month, is set to evaluate safety concerns related to the advanced driver assistance system.
Duffy’s transition from politics to media and now to a Cabinet position reflects his broad experience in public policy and communications. As a former representative of Wisconsin’s 7th congressional district, he was known for his conservative stance on economic and regulatory issues. More recently, he co-hosted The Bottom Line on Fox Business alongside Dagen McDowell. His return to public service places him at the center of transportation policy decisions that will impact millions of Americans.
With pressing challenges such as infrastructure recovery, aviation safety, and regulatory oversight, Duffy’s leadership at the Department of Transportation will be closely watched. His ability to navigate bipartisan priorities and execute key projects will define his tenure in this crucial role.