Sec. Sean Duffy testifies before Senate panel on Dept. of Transportation's budget — 5/19/26

Summary

Secretary Sean Duffy testifies before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Department of Transportation's FY2027 budget. The hearing covers funding for infrastructure, air traffic control modernization, and concerns about expiring IIJA funds. Senators express worries about cuts to essential air service, bridge programs, and transit funding.

• Senators press Secretary Duffy on proposed cuts to Essential Air Service and BUILD grant programs.
• Duffy highlights progress on air traffic control modernization and hiring 2,400 new controllers.
• Several senators express concern over the sunset of IIJA advanced appropriations creating a funding cliff.
• Duffy defends the administration's approach to permitting reform and removing green mandates.
• The hearing includes partisan exchanges over the Secretary's 'Great American Road Trip' and its corporate sponsors.
• Senators from both parties urge continued federal investment in bridges, rail, and maritime infrastructure.