Senate confirms Chao as secretary of transportation

Washington – Elaine Chao has returned to government service as secretary of transportation after the Senate confirmed her nomination Jan. 31.

From 2001 to 2009, Chao served as the secretary of labor in the administration of former President George W. Bush. She also has served as deputy secretary in the Department of Transportation, chair of the Federal Maritime Commission and director of the Peace Corps.

“As I begin my first day as U.S. Secretary of Transportation, I want to thank all of you – the department’s career professionals – for making the transition to new leadership a smooth one, and for welcoming us to the department,” Chao wrote in an email to DOT staff members after her confirmation. “As many of you may know, this will be my third time serving in the U.S. Department of Transportation. I look forward to working with you once again to ensure that the safety and efficiency of our country’s transportation systems are second to none.”

The National Safety Council congratulated Chao on her confirmation.

“As motor vehicle deaths continue to climb, it is vital to have leadership that understands proven prevention strategies and embraces promising innovation and technology,” NSC stated in a press release. “Chao will provide that leadership. We look forward to working closely with her to eliminate preventable deaths and make our roads safer.”