Joshi leaves FMCSA; DeFazio announces retirement
The end of 2021 marked the announcement of leadership changes in transportation.
On Dec. 20, FMCSA acting Administrator Meera Joshi was named as New York City’s deputy mayor for operations. Earlier that month, Rep. Peter DeFazio, who is the chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, announced that he will not seek re-election in 2022.
Joshi’s departure came as a surprise as she had been nominated by President Joe Biden to become the agency’s next permanent administrator.
As of press time, it was expected that Joshi would continue to lead FMCSA through January.
“We are very grateful for Deputy Administrator Meera Joshi’s leadership this past year at FMCSA and know that she will bring the same commitment, expertise, and vision to her new role,” a U.S. Department of Transportation spokesperson said. “She has engaged with truck drivers and the motor coach industry to chart a clear path for FMCSA to address our supply chain challenges, improve driver safety and job quality, and has built a strong team at FMCSA who will help build on this foundation.”
Joshi was named deputy administrator of FMCSA, which made her the de facto leader of the agency, on Jan. 21. In April, Biden nominated Joshi to take the permanent role as administrator of the FMCSA.
The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee advanced Joshi’s nomination through a 22-6 roll call in October. However, Joshi’s confirmation still hadn’t been approved by the full Senate.
FMCSA has not had a permanent administrator since Ray Martinez left the position in October 2019.
DeFazio to retire
DeFazio, who served 36 years in the House, said he did not plan on seeking office after his current term ends.
“With humility and gratitude, I am announcing that I will not seek re-election next year,” DeFazio, D-Ore., said in a news release. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as congressman for the Fourth District of Oregon.” LL