DC Update: Key Senate Confirmation Hearings This Week

This week, Congress held a series of confirmation hearings for President-elect Trump’s cabinet nominees, two of which directly affect the remote-production industry.

The Senate Homeland Security Committee held a hearing for General John Kelly, Trump’s choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security. The Senate also held a hearing on Elaine Chao’s nomination to be Secretary of Transportation.

General Kelly easily maneuvered through his confirmation hearing, drawing bipartisan support for what is likely to be a smooth approval process. Elaine Chao had a similar experience, with Senate Democrats on the Committee making it clear that there would be few – if any – objections to her.

Both General Kelly and Ms. Chao’s tenures will have impacts on the remote production industry for the next several years for many reasons, not the least of which being that they are both well connected with large corporations and influential trade associations. If they are confirmed – which will likely occur – it is important for the industry to engage early and regularly to establish its voice amongst the many interests that DOT and DHS encompass.