Washington, DC – Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following opening statement regarding nominees put before the committee today:

“I wish to congratulate all of you on your nomination for positions in the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), the United States Department of Commerce, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.  It is a true honor to be selected by President Obama to serve in these important positions, and, if confirmed, you will be charged with leading the federal government’s efforts to promote transportation mobility, advance commerce, strengthen ocean management, and improve environmental science and technology throughout the nation and the world.
 
“I am sorry to have to miss this hearing because of an injury to my knee and appreciate the assistance of my colleagues in chairing the hearing in my absence.

“I look forward to working with all of you in your new positions.  You have great responsibility and the challenges facing our country right now are of great magnitude.  I commend you on your commitment to public service and I look forward to working with you in your new positions.

“I have submitted several questions for the record and look forward to your response.”