WASHINGTON, D.C. – In his opening statement at today’s Senate Commerce Committee confirmation hearing for the Secretary of Transportation, Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) outlined his agenda for the next two years and affirmed his support for Congressman Sean Duffy. Sen. Cruz declared his intentions to regularly hold hearings and move bills through the committee. He reiterated his commitment to working with his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address shared priorities.

Additionally, Sen. Cruz highlighted Congressman Duffy’s past leadership in Congress to improve the transportation sector and emphasized the need to eliminate burdensome regulations at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), invest in infrastructure enhancements, and promote safer travel.

Here are Sen. Cruz’s remarks as prepared for delivery:

“Good morning.  The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will come to order. 

“I would like to take a few moments to speak to how I intend to lead this Committee over the next two years.  The Commerce Committee has a strong tradition of bipartisanship and collegiality — more so than other committees.  It is my desire that we continue in that tradition whether we’re working on legislation or processing nominations.  I have no doubt there will be vigorous debate and severe disagreements.  We may spar from time to time, but I believe we’ll be able to do a lot working together for the benefit of our country.

“I intend this to be a committee of energy, vigor, and accomplishment. There will be committee hearings and we’ll be regularly moving bills out of this committee and through the Senate.  To Ranking Member Cantwell and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle here at the Committee, I look forward to working with each of you on policies that serve the American people by creating jobs, spurring economic growth, and keeping families safe from crime or victimization.

“Before we begin on today’s nomination, I’d also like to welcome the newest members: Senators Curtis, Moreno, Sheehy, Fetterman, Kim, and Blunt Rochester.  I look forward to working with you and your teams this congress.

“Turning to the topic at hand, today’s hearing is on the President-elect’s nomination of former Wisconsin Congressman Sean Duffy to be Secretary of Transportation.

“Congress established the Department of Transportation in 1966 to ensure “the provision of fast, safe, efficient, and convenient transportation.” Consider what has happened since: In 1966, man had not yet set foot on the moon.  Now, we are using drones in everyday life, riding in driverless cars, and sending private missions into space.  A new era in transportation and infrastructure is here.

“Congressman Duffy is a dedicated public servant who is well qualified to lead this important department.  In addition to nearly a decade of service as Northwestern Wisconsin’s representative to Congress, he is a former prosecutor, a family man, and someone who cares deeply about the future of this country.  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.  I strongly support his nomination to this position and look forward to hearing more about his qualifications and vision for the Department at today’s hearing.

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