Buttigieg confirmed as U.S. transportation secretary

The U.S. Senate yesterday voted 86-13 to confirm Pete Buttigieg as U.S. transportation secretary in President Joe Biden's administration.

After the vote, several rail industry leaders offered statements of congratulations and praise for Buttigieg, who will oversee a federal department that employs about 55,000 people. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is expected to play a major role in the Biden administration's efforts to combat climate change.

Buttigieg's "clearly stated support for our nation's rail network" is welcomed by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and its members, said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Ian Jefferies.

"Together, we can make meaningful progress on building back our economy, driving down emissions and maintaining the nation's global competitiveness," Jefferies said.

Short line leaders also are eager to work with Buttigieg and the USDOT, said Chuck Baker, president of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA).

"Short lines want to be part of the solution — on carbon reduction, on improving safety, on reducing road congestion and maintenance needs, and on job creation and economic growth," Baker said.

As a former mayor, Buttigieg "understands the challenges facing American cities and the role passenger rail plays in connecting people and economies," said Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn.

"[Buttigieg's] commitment to invest in infrastructure and climate initiatives will create jobs, help the nation recover from the pandemic and provide for a more sustainable transportation system in America," said Flynn. "Amtrak is excited to work with the Biden administration, Congress and our state partners to launch a new era of passenger rail that will create dedicated and predictable funding, connect underserved communities and stimulate economic recovery."

Also yesterday, the Biden administration announced additional appointees to the USDOT, including Tristan Brown, deputy administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; and Andrew Wishnia, deputy assistant secretary for climate policy.