U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced the confirmation of four new officials to the Department of Transportation following a Senate vote on October 7, 2025. The officials include Michael Rutherford as Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight Infrastructure & Policy, Gregory Zerzan as General Counsel, Derek Barrs as Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and David Fink as Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
Michael Rutherford will lead efforts in developing national freight policy and data-sharing initiatives. "I am honored to support President Trump and Secretary Duffy in their unwavering commitment to advancing the cause for freight transportation," said Rutherford.
Gregory Zerzan will oversee legal operations within the department. "I am greatly thankful to President Trump and Secretary Duffy for placing their faith in me," Zerzan said.
Derek Barrs will focus on improving roadway safety and efficiency in freight and passenger transport at FMCSA. "My mission is clear — to strengthen safety, demand accountability, and deliver results," Barrs remarked.
David Fink aims to enhance rail safety and efficiency at FRA. "Under this Administration, FRA will return to its primary focus on safety," said Fink.
The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced $19.6 million in grants to small shipyards across 19 states through its Small Shipyard Grant Program, aimed at modernizing facilities and boosting employment opportunities (https://www.maritime.dot.gov/newsroom/maritime-administration-awards-nearly-20-million-funding-strengthen-us-shipyard-economic). Additionally, it recognized winners of its Inclusive Design Challenge during the ADA's anniversary (https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/anniversary-ada-usdot-announces-winners-its-first-ever-inclusive-design-challenge).
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