At a Senate Commerce Committee nominations hearing, Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) voiced support for three nominees who are expected to play key roles in shaping the future of American transportation. The hearing addressed appointments for senior positions within the Department of Transportation and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
Cruz highlighted Ryan McCormack, nominated to be Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy, emphasizing his experience in both legislative and executive branches. According to Cruz, McCormack’s background will aid efforts to streamline infrastructure project permitting and promote advanced technologies such as drones and autonomous vehicles.
Dan Edwards was recognized as the nominee for Assistant Secretary of Transportation for Aviation and International Affairs. With a 30-year career in aviation—including time as a military pilot, civil engineer, and private sector executive—Edwards is expected to contribute significantly to aviation policy. Cruz referenced ongoing issues with Mexico’s compliance with the U.S.-Mexico Open Skies Agreement, stating he looked forward to learning how Edwards would address these challenges.
Trent Morse was nominated to serve on the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. Cruz noted Morse’s previous service in several Trump administration roles across various federal departments and his current position on DOT’s Advisory Board.
In prepared remarks, Cruz began by acknowledging a recent tragedy at Louisville’s International Airport where a UPS cargo plane crash resulted in at least nine fatalities. He stated: “Before we hear from our nominees, I would like to first acknowledge the tragedy that occurred last night at Louisville’s International Airport, after a UPS cargo plane crashed soon after takeoff, tragically resulting in the loss of at least nine lives. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the families of the crew and others who lost their lives in this terrible accident. It’s a reminder of the critical work this Committee does to improve aviation safety, particularly this week with our two nominations hearings. Tomorrow’s hearing will feature a nominee to serve as a board member of the National Transportation Safety Board.”
He continued: “With that, we will now proceed to the business before the Committee, and to hear from three nominees: Ryan McCormack, nominee to be the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; Daniel Edwards, nominee to be the Assistant Secretary of Transportation for Aviation and International Affairs; and Trent Morse, nominee to serve on the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.”
Cruz congratulated each nominee: “Congratulations to each of you. All three of these nominees will contribute to making American transportation safe and efficient.”
He criticized previous Department policies under President Biden's administration but credited current leadership with returning focus toward safety and efficiency: “Under the Biden-Buttigieg regime, DOT diverted billions toward left-wing initiatives. For example, by requiring states and cities to address pointless DEI and environmental justice criteria when applying for infrastructure grants, or by squandering taxpayer money to the tune of 4 billion dollars for California’s failed High Speed Rail boondoggle, rather than fixing outdated air traffic systems and aging bridges. Today, Secretary Duffy has restored the Department’s focus on its core mission: advancing the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the U.S. transportation system.”
He outlined McCormack's credentials further: “We will hear from nominees prepared to support Secretary Duffy’s agenda. Let’s begin with Mr. McCormack... He has worked in numerous positions on Capitol Hill including Legislative Director for then-Representative Sean Duffy and as chief of staff for Congressman Scott Fitzgerald.” Cruz also cited McCormack's prior roles at Export-Import Bank during President Trump’s administration.
On Dan Edwards’ nomination: “Next we have Dan Edwards who has been nominated... That Office is responsible for promoting fair competition and enforcing international agreements... Mr. Edwards’ 30-year aviation career includes stints as a military pilot... civil engineer... senior executive roles...” Addressing international matters he said: “Since 2022 Mexico has been in violation... I look forward to hearing how Mr. Edwards will stand up for U.S. carriers…”
Regarding Trent Morse's appointment: “Finally Mr. Morse will serve as a board member on MWAA... He has served in multiple positions in Trump administration… Currently serves on DOT’s Advisory Board.” On airport transit issues he added: “I’m glad… Mr. Morse shares my disdain…for glacial tank-like people movers at Dulles… it sounds like we’ll finally have a representative on MWAA board who cares about experiences…at Reagan & Dulles.”
Cruz concluded by thanking all nominees present.
