Jackson Confirmed As DOT Deputy

The U.S. Senate confirmed Michael P. Jackson as deputy secretary of the Department of Transportation in a voice vote on May 4.

His confirmation was brought before the full Senate by Sen. James Jeffords (R-Vt.), who asked that the confirmation receive unanimous consent.

The nominee had been praised for his familiarity with transportation issues by Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.), and Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta.

Before the vote, Jackson was confirmed by the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee chaired by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).

Jackson is expected to spearhead a task force looking at airline delays and infrastructure problems when he begins his duties.

The new deputy secretary was chief of staff at the Department of Transportation in 1992-93 when Andrew Card, now White House chief of staff, was the transportation secretary.