Senate Delays FAA Administrator Confirmation Vote

Confirmation of Phil Washington, who is President Biden's pick to head the FAA, has been in limbo for months.

Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 02:00 PM ET

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Wednesday the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee delayed its confirmation vote for Phil Washington—President Biden’s pick to head the FAA. [Credit: Pixabay]

Key Takeaways:

The Senate Commerce Committee delayed its confirmation vote for Phil Washington, President Biden's nominee to head the FAA, due to strong resistance and undecided committee members.
Republicans, led by Sen. Ted Cruz, argue Washington is unqualified due to his lack of aviation experience and inability to answer basic aviation questions.
Democrats support Washington, asserting his qualifications and dismissing Republican objections as politically motivated, citing support from former FAA heads and aviation worker unions.
The delay comes amidst urgent calls for a permanent FAA leader, as the agency has been without one for over a year and faces ongoing operational challenges.

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On Wednesday, the Senate Commerce Committee delayed its confirmation vote for Phil Washington—President Biden’s pick to head the FAA.

A controversial nominee, Washington’s vote has been in limbo for months as he faces strong resistance from several lawmakers concerned about his lack of aviation experience. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has been at the center of the criticism.