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Transportation Secretary Nominee Emphasizes Continued Focus on Aviation Safety


“Boeing poses a national security concern,” stated Sean Duffy. “As America’s largest exporter, they require strict guidance.”

Former Representative Sean Duffy (R-Wis.) has pledged to place safety at the forefront of the Department of Transportation, asserting that it will be the agency’s primary focus on aviation if the Senate confirms his appointment.

Duffy made these commitments during his confirmation hearing on January 15, in front of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Throughout his testimony, he expressed support for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in its ongoing oversight of Boeing, advocated for sustained infrastructure funding, and called for full transparency regarding the unidentified drones that have been sighted over several U.S. states in recent months.

The hearing, co-hosted by Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), was amicable. Senators from both parties voiced their admiration for Duffy and his vision of prioritizing safety within the Transportation Department.

Duffy previously represented Wisconsin’s Seventh Congressional District from 2011 until 2019.

Focused on Safety in Transportation

In his opening statement, Duffy repeatedly highlighted the importance of safety. He referenced the tens of thousands of fatalities from roadway accidents in the U.S. each year, describing it as a matter that “hits close to home” due to his wife’s survival of a serious car accident that “profoundly changed her life.”

“If confirmed, my priority will be road safety, ensuring that lives and families aren’t forever impacted by preventable accidents,” he affirmed.

“In aviation, safety will be the utmost priority. America desperately needs more air traffic controllers.”

Duffy emphasized that the Transportation Department requires “the finest air traffic controllers” and that he aims to collaborate with the FAA to “restore global trust in Boeing” and ensure the safety of U.S. airspace.

“Transportation is entering an extraordinary new era,” he remarked. “We are engaged in a global contest to out-innovate and outcompete the rest of the world.”

If confirmed, his plan includes developing “clear regulations” that will merge safety with technological advancements, while consistently maintaining a safety-first approach, according to Duffy.

He reaffirmed his support for the FAA’s oversight of Boeing, which intensified after the tragic 737 MAX 8 incidents and the Alaska Airlines door panel issue.

“Boeing is a matter of national security,” he affirmed. “Being the largest exporter of American goods, they require strict guidance.”

Duffy expressed his commitment to work alongside the FAA to guarantee Boeing follows through with its safety strategy mandated for 2024.

“I want to engage with FAA safety experts to assess our current status and the necessary steps toward ensuring the continued production of safe aircraft at Boeing for global markets,” he asserted.

He also vowed to collaborate with the FAA on maintaining appropriate oversight of the airplane manufacturer.

Clarifying Mystery Drones

Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.), recently sworn in, inquired about the unidentified drone sightings which began in his home state months earlier. Kim raised concerns that these drones could pose significant safety risks in airspace, particularly at night.

He asked Duffy whether he agrees that the FAA should enhance efforts to differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate drone activities and if he is prepared to work with the committee in this regard.

“I completely concur, Senator,” Duffy replied, acknowledging having witnessed a few drone sightings himself.

“Transparency is essential,” he stated. “We need clarity on what’s happening and who is operating these drones.”

Duffy further emphasized the need for the FAA to enhance its rulemaking related to drone oversight, moving beyond a jumble of regulations that may encourage businesses to innovate abroad where regulations may be clearer.

“We need established guidelines that extend beyond visual line of sight and ensure that innovation continues on our soil,” he remarked. “This innovation holds the potential to revolutionize numerous facets of our economy; we need to ensure it occurs here.”

Policy Shifts for Electric Vehicles

Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) sought Duffy’s views on strategies to support the Highway Trust Fund faced with dwindling gasoline tax revenues from electric vehicle drivers.

“They should contribute to the maintenance of our roads; finding a way to do that is somewhat challenging,” he acknowledged.

To ensure the fund grows in alignment with the nation’s increasing commercial demands, Duffy identified three immediate approaches: Firstly, the Transportation Department could raise gasoline taxes, which he opposes; secondly, the government could implement increased tolling; thirdly, it could adopt a mileage-based strategy for those who aren’t paying gasoline taxes.

“However, I have reservations regarding privacy concerns for American citizens,” he remarked. “Thus, I believe this is a discussion appropriate for this committee.

“We can enhance the efficiency of our financial resources, streamline procedures, and expedite funding flow into projects.”

Regarding the Biden administration’s initiative to provide tax credits for the production of electric vehicles as opposed to traditional gasoline-powered cars, Duffy expressed his support for a “dynamic marketplace” that accommodates all vehicle types.

“We shouldn’t be compelled to purchase vehicles favored by Washington. Consumers should have the freedom to choose vehicles that suit their preferences,” he asserted.

“There’s potential for both electric and gasoline vehicles in this marketplace, which may depend on individual priorities and regional conditions. I envision a thriving marketplace.”

Nonetheless, Duffy pledged his support for the infrastructure funding initiated by the Biden administration.

“President Trump is committed to building; he aims to invest in the restoration of our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure,” Duffy remarked.

“If confirmed, I will strive to reduce bureaucratic hurdles that delay significant infrastructure initiatives, ensuring that funds are utilized effectively and that taxpayer money is well spent.”

Notably, Duffy, known for his appearances on several MTV reality shows, also holds a law degree and was appointed Ashland County’s district attorney by then-Wisconsin Governor Scott McCallum in 2002, serving until 2010.

After resigning from Congress in 2019 to care for his daughter, born with Down syndrome and a heart defect, he transitioned to co-hosting a program on Fox Business.



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