Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Senate has confirmed Sean Duffy as the nation’s 20th Secretary of Transportation, a decision that has drawn widespread praise from the trucking industry and other transportation stakeholders. Duffy, a former Wisconsin congressman and television host, was confirmed in a bipartisan 77-22 vote.
Trucking organizations swiftly expressed their support for Duffy’s appointment, highlighting his commitment to improving highway safety, modernizing infrastructure, and addressing critical industry challenges such as truck parking shortages and regulatory reform.
Jim Ward, president of the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), congratulated Duffy and emphasized the organization’s eagerness to work with him on key policy initiatives.
“The Truckload Carriers Association congratulates former Congressman Sean Duffy on his appointment as the new Secretary of Transportation. TCA looks forward to collaborating with Secretary Duffy and the Department of Transportation to promote policies that enhance the safety and efficiency of our nation's highways," Ward said.
He also stressed the importance of expanding truck parking facilities, implementing advanced safety technologies like automatic emergency braking systems, and recognizing hair testing as an approved method for drug screening.
Similarly, Todd Spencer, president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), which represents 150,000 small business truckers, welcomed the appointment.
“We look forward to continuing to work with him in advancing the priorities of small business truckers across America, including expanding truck parking, fighting freight fraud, and rolling back burdensome, unnecessary regulations,” Spencer said.
Chris Spear, president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), hailed the bipartisan nature of Duffy’s confirmation, calling it a sign of confidence in his ability to unite stakeholders.
“Transportation is an issue that affects every American, and it is the key to a thriving economy, social and economic mobility, and job creation. Throughout his congressional service, Secretary Duffy was a steadfast supporter of hardworking truckers and the work that they do to deliver the nation’s freight,” Spear said.
Beyond the trucking industry, Duffy’s appointment was met with optimism from organizations focused on highway infrastructure and policy. NATSO, which represents truck stops and travel centers, urged the new secretary to prioritize long-term highway funding solutions.
“As Secretary Duffy considers proposals for funding infrastructure and the reauthorization of surface transportation law, we encourage him to focus on solutions that solve our infrastructure investment challenges without harming the interstate-exit-based businesses that help support the nation’s economy," NATSO stated.
The organization also called on Duffy to uphold existing policies that prohibit the commercialization of Interstate rest areas and tolling of existing highways, which they argue would negatively impact businesses dependent on highway traffic.
The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) also voiced its support for Duffy’s confirmation, highlighting the importance of a well-functioning freight transportation system.
“The chemical distribution industry relies on an efficient and safe freight transportation system to support our domestic and international supply chains and ensure the delivery of chemical products that are crucial to Americans’ everyday lives,” said Eric R. Byer, ACD president and CEO.
With Duffy now at the helm of the Department of Transportation, industry leaders anticipate a period of collaboration and policy development aimed at strengthening the nation’s transportation network. His background in both politics and media is expected to play a crucial role in shaping transportation policies that will impact millions of Americans.
Here at Bloom Services, we are 100% OTR trucking. While you won’t find us on a virtual billboard in a simulator, we do offer newer trucks, and cover trailer and cargo liability. We do not pay based on mileage, rather we pay 80% gross load. This is beneficial for strong drivers with a decent work ethic, you will earn based on the actual load rather than mere miles. Our drivers average $3,000 plus a week take home pay after all expenses, like fuel, truck rent, etc. If you have Grit, and the endurance to consistently deliver loads and run for at least three weeks at a time, you can take home $150K a year. If you are interested, apply now.
5120 Belmont Rd Unit K, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
Mon - Sun: 7am-5pm