The Senate Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held a nomination hearing July 13 to debate whether David Pekoske should serve a second consecutive term as administrator for the Transportation Security Administration, a part of the Department of Homeland Security.
Following the hearing, Pekoske was confirmed by the Senate. He held the position of acting secretary for the DHS from Jan. 20 to Feb. 2, 2021, according to the Senate committee’s website. Prior to his service with DHS, Pekoske worked as a government services industry executive, supplying “counterterrorism, security and intelligence support services to government agencies.” Pekoske was also the 26th vice commandant of the Coast Guard. He has a Master of Business Administration from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Science from the Coast Guard Academy.
“After 20 years, TSA has grown considerably and we have learned a great deal about how to best protect our nation’s transportation system,” Pekoske said during the hearing. “We still have much more work to do, but I remain committed to TSA’s future. I look forward to the opportunity to lead the people of TSA for another five years, if confirmed.”
Pekoske has served as administrator of the TSA since 2017, according to the Federal News Network. President Joe Biden re-nominated Pekoske in February for his second five-year term.
In his congressional testimony during the nomination hearing, Pekoske testified that he is dedicated to keeping Americans safe.
“The TSA workforce is exceptional and during my time at TSA, they have performed at a high- level amid challenging and historic circumstances,” he said. “Whether it is transportation security officers, federal air marshals, or all of the TSA employees who support them behind the scenes, I am immensely proud to be a part of an organization laser-focused on protecting our nation and its transportation system. They are a dedicated, committed workforce.”
