NEW YORK — During his Senate confirmation hearing, Sean Duffy, nominated by Donald Trump to lead the Transportation Department, pledged to rigorously evaluate Boeing’s safety concerns, simplify regulations, and maintain the integrity of investigations related to Tesla, an electric car manufacturer owned by Elon Musk, if he is confirmed as Secretary of Transportation.
Duffy, a former congressman from Wisconsin, expressed his intention to “restore global confidence” in Boeing, indicate an increase in the hiring of air traffic controllers, and establish federal regulations for autonomous vehicles rather than allowing states to develop their own rules. This move aligns with efforts to expedite the progression of the technology that companies like Tesla have been pursuing.
When questioned about ongoing investigations into Tesla, Duffy reaffirmed his commitment to letting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complete its inquiries without interference, even in light of any political pressures that may arise. “I will let NHTSA do its investigation,” he stated, underlining his support for the investigative process. At 53 years old, Duffy is positioning himself for the role at a time when the U.S. faces fierce competition in electric vehicle and self-driving technology from nations like China.
Throughout the hearing, the challenges posed by China repeatedly surfaced, as did discussions regarding Musk, who is noted for his substantial financial contributions—approximately $250 million—to Trump’s presidential campaign. Duffy voiced concerns about the absence of uniform regulations, suggesting that the lack of clear guidelines could hinder advancements in the U.S. electric vehicle sector, stating, “We are in direct competition with China.” He emphasized the need to innovate and outpace other global players: “We are in a global race to out-innovate the rest of the world.”
The Department of Transportation, which employs over 55,000 individuals, manages substantial annual expenditures, and oversees the nation’s highways, railways, and airspace, also establishes safety standards for various transportation modes, including trains and vehicles. The NHTSA has been investigating Tesla’s Full Self-Driving feature, which has drawn scrutiny due to reports of crashes, including one involving a fatality.
Duffy’s approach to leading the Transportation Department could significantly affect the financial outcomes for Tesla as well as Musk’s other venture, SpaceX, which holds numerous federal contracts. The Federal Aviation Administration, part of this department, has previously fined SpaceX, including a notable $633,000 for safety violations during two launches in Florida over the past year.
Senator Ted Cruz questioned Duffy regarding these fines and described them as excessive. In response, Duffy assured the Senate that he would review the situation and work closely with lawmakers to address concerns surrounding space launches.
If Duffy secures confirmation, he will succeed Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay member of the Cabinet. Prior to his nomination, Duffy served as a co-host on “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business before departing from the network in November. He initially won a House seat during the Tea Party surge in 2010, presenting himself as a relatable figure by showcasing his roots as a lumberjack. He resigned from Congress in 2019 to devote time to his family, which includes nine children.
Duffy’s unique background, including being a former lumberjack athlete, is complemented by a personal life marked by his marriage to Rachel Campos-Duffy, a co-host on Fox & Friends Weekend, whom he met during the filming of MTV’s “Road Rules: All Stars” in 1998.
