01.29.13

Cantwell Statement on Retirement of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement after Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood’s announcement that he will retire this year following the confirmation of a successor.

“Today, all Americans and all Washingtonians give thanks to Secretary Ray LaHood for his record of making smart transportation investments that support economic growth,” Cantwell said. “Secretary LaHood has been a true friend of the transportation community in the Pacific Northwest and around the nation. During his tenure, he has always focused on smart policy over partisanship, ensuring goods and passengers can move across the country safely and efficiently.

“Last August, I was proud to join Secretary LaHood in Seattle and Spokane to announce a new national freight roadmap that will keep our trade economy competitive in a global marketplace. His commitment to this vision paved the way for the new Freight Policy Council that adopts the collaborative Washington state approach to freight mobility. I’ve also been honored to work with Secretary LaHood on key transportation projects in
Washington state, from the North Spokane Corridor to Sea-Tac Airport to the Columbia River Crossing.

“Secretary LaHood was a critical partner in passing new transportation and aviation bills last year that have put people to work improving roads, bridges, transit, and air travel across America. I’d like to thank Secretary LaHood for his leadership and wish him the best in the future.”      

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