“As I look back on the past four years, I am proud of what we have accomplished together in so many important areas,” LaHood said in his farewell e-mail.
American Trucking Associations spokesman Sean McNally said the group “appreciates secretary LaHood’s service to the country as transportation secretary, particularly in elevating the highway safety discussion on distracted driving.”
LaHood, 67, was confirmed to lead DOT Jan. 22, 2009, two days after Obama’s first inauguration. Prior to DOT, he was a Republican member of Congress from Illinois for 14 years.
LaHood initially said in 2011 that he would leave DOT if Obama were re-elected. He said at the time he would go into the private sector and did not have plans to seek public office again.