William Canary, interim president of the American Trucking Assns. (ATA), said the lobbying group is both thrilled and proud of the Senate confirmation.

“At this critical time for all Americans, it is important to have a respected transportation professional at the wheel, leading the effort to keep our highways open and enabling us to continue safely moving the freight that America needs,” Canary said. “Now more than ever, we need to stand shoulder to shoulder.”

Canary said the ATA will continue working closely with the Bush administration and the new FMCSA leadership to make progress on top safety issues.