Austin News

In a recent session of the Senate Commerce Committee, Ranking Member Ted Cruz expressed his commitment to expedite the confirmation process for President-elect Trump's nominees. As the incoming Chairman of the Committee, Cruz emphasized a thorough review and swift confirmation, citing past practices where cabinet nominees were granted hearings prior to inauguration and voted on within a week.

Cruz reiterated his intention to collaborate with the Democratic minority on shared priorities. The committee favorably reported several nominations including Ronald Batory, Lanhee Chen, David Capozzi, Elaine Clegg for the Amtrak Board of Directors; Adam White and Felix Sanchez for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting Board; Louis Sola as Federal Maritime Commissioner; Dr. Lisa Ballance for the Marine Mammal Commission; along with various Coast Guard promotions.

In his prepared remarks, Cruz acknowledged outgoing members such as Vice President-elect Vance, Senator Sinema, and Senator Tester for their contributions. He stated his plan to uphold customs regarding minority rights at the committee. Highlighting past examples like Ray LaHood's nomination under President Obama and recent practices under Presidents Biden and Trump, Cruz outlined a framework for expeditious nominee processing.

Quoting Alexander Hamilton from Federalist 76, Cruz underscored that the Senate's role is to prevent "the appointment of unfit characters." He affirmed respect for bipartisanship in reviewing nominees.