Acting transportation secretary appointed awaiting Biden
The U.S. Department of Transportation has appointed an acting secretary, Steven Bradbury.
By Michael McGrady, Maritime Direct Americas Correspondent
After Elaine Chao resigned from her position as the transportation secretary for the U.S. government, the department has now appointed an acting official to lead the department until the incoming Biden administration takes over.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the agency’s general counsel, Steven G. Bradbury, has succeeded Chao as the acting secretary until incoming secretary-designee Pete Buttigieg enters office after the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden on January 20, 2021.
“Let me take this opportunity, as well, to thank Secretary Chao for her tremendous service to the Department and the Nation,” said Bradbury in a statement sent to the Department of Transportation staff and to the press.
“Under her strong leadership this past four years, supported by the tireless efforts and dedication of the men and women of DOT, we have accomplished much: We have advanced the safety of our Nation’s transportation systems, helped pave the way for the future of mobility, strengthened America’s infrastructure, and provided effective assistance in response to the COVID public health emergency,” Bradbury said.
Replacing Chao
Bradbury joined the Department of Transportation after being sworn in on November 28, 2017. He is 23rd general counsel for the department after he was received and appointed, via confirmation, by the U.S. Senate.
His authority encompasses legal questions and policies the department implements, and also oversee the activities of the department’s legal team. Bradbury is a considerably powerful bureaucrat.
Chao resigned after pro-Trump rioters and domestic terrorists raided the U.S. Capitol Building in an attempt to block the confirmation of Joe Biden’s electoral victory.
“While the past week in Washington has been fraught and tumultuous, it remains a distinct honor and privilege to work for the American people in this great Department, and I am deeply gratified to serve with you as part of our DOT family,” Bradbury said.
Buttigieg will take over the department, including the country’s maritime regulatory affairs.
This is a developing story.
