Anthony Foxx sworn in as Secretary of Transportation

Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx was sworn in on July 2 as the 17th Secretary of Transportation, during a private ceremony at DOT’s headquarters.

Foxx, a Democrat, replaces former Illinois Congressman Ray LaHood — one of a handful of Republicans who served in the Obama administration. Foxx, who was confirmed by the Senate on June 27 by a vote of 100-0, was sworn in by Judge Nathaniel Jones. Foxx worked as a law clerk for Jones at the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee.

Following his swearing in, Foxx spent the day meeting with employees on issues ranging from transportation safety to hurricane and severe weather preparedness, according to a press release from DOT officials.

He also released the following statement:

“Safety will remain our top priority at DOT.  At the same time, I will work to improve the efficiency and performance of our current transportation system while building the infrastructure we need for future generations. In doing so, I look forward to bringing my ‘on the ground’ experiences as a mayor, while embracing the tremendous knowledge, skill and ingenuity of the DOT workforce and our many stakeholders.”

Foxx served as the mayor of Charlotte, N.C., from 2009 to 2013. He earned a bachelor’s degree in History from Davidson College and a law degree from New York University’s School of Law.

Source: Washington Post