Senators Praise Sean Duffy As ‘Highly Qualified’ and ‘The Right Person for This Job’ in Confirmation Hearing

Chairman Cruz announces executive session to markup Duffy nomination on January 22

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At today's Senate Commerce Committee hearing, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to be U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, earned praise from Senators on both sides of the dais, citing his qualifications and history of public service.

In light of the strong support behind Congressman Duffy's nomination, Chairman Cruz has announced a full committee markup to consider this nomination on Wednesday January 22, 2025 at 10:00 AM in the Commerce Committee hearing room, SR-253.

As Chairman Cruz noted during today's nomination hearing:

(WATCH)

"As a father of nine, Congressman Duffy knows better than most the truth of President-elect Trump's comment on 'how important it is for families to be able to travel safely, and with peace of mind.' In the House, Congressman Duffy partnered with members across the aisle to improve transportation in his state. That includes members of this very committee with whom he worked to fund the St. Croix Crossing, replacing a decades-old, structurally deficient bridge between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

"He also advanced port infrastructure improvements as co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force. "Congressman Duffy will promote a leaner, more efficient DOT, eliminating onerous regulations while responsibly investing in the nation's infrastructure and ensuring safety."

Senator Tammy Baldwin

(WATCH)

"It was not a matter of right or left, just what was good for our constituents, our economy, and our state. Today, the St. Croix Crossing, which opened in 2017, has shortened travel times, reduced traffic congestion, and, most importantly, improved safety…

"But at the end of the day, I am confident that Sean is the right person for this job in this coming, upcoming administration. I believe he will help deliver for Wisconsin families, businesses, and workers, and I expect that he will work through this committee and both sides of the aisle to improve our infrastructure and address the challenges that arise in the years ahead. I am proud to join you today to introduce Sean Duffy to this committee."

Senator Ron Johnson

(WATCH)

"Sean will be a strong and dedicated leader of the Department of Transportation, prioritizing safety and ensuring we are investing in infrastructure projects that connect our communities. We are fortunate he is willing to serve the public again, and I recommend him to you without reservation. I am proud to introduce my friend Sean Duffy to the members of this committee."

Senator Dan Sullivan

(WATCH)

"Mr. Duffy, I believe you are very highly qualified to be the Secretary. I certainly plan on supporting you. You are certainly as qualified as the current Secretary of Transportation, who I supported four years ago. So I'm hoping all of my colleagues on this committee, everybody will support Mr. Duffy."

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https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2025/1/senators-praise-sean-duffy-as-highly-qualified-and-the-right-person-for-this-job-in-confirmation-hearing