‘Commercial'? Or not?
QUICK FIX
— Bryan Bedford, the FAA administrator nominee, doesn't hold a license to fly aircraft commercially, records show — but his official biography long said he was 'rated' to do so.
— Urgent checks of Boeing Dreamliners in India have begun, and authorities recovered a black box from the passenger jet that crashed in the country last week, killing more than 200 people.
— The Senate Finance Committee is expected to drop some of its reconciliation text today. Will it address proposed electric vehicle and hybrid fees?
IT'S MONDAY: You're reading Morning Transportation, your Washington policy guide to everything that moves. We're glad you're here. Send tips, feedback and song lyrics to Sam at sogozalek@politico.com, Chris at cmarquette@politico.com and Oriana at opawlyk@politico.com and follow us at @SamOgozalek, @ChrisMarquette_ and @Oriana0214.
'I was ridin' shotgun with my hair undone/ In the front seat of his car/ He's got a one-hand feel on the steering wheel/ The other on my heart.'
Editor's Note: Want to receive this newsletter every weekday? Subscribe to POLITICO Pro. You'll also receive daily policy news and other intelligence you need to act on the day's biggest stories.
Driving the day
QUESTIONS RAISED: President Donald Trump's nominee to head the FAA, Bryan Bedford, long described himself in his official biography as being 'rated' to fly aircraft commercially — but records examined by POLITICO show that he does not hold any commercial license. One of two of his biography pages at Republic Airways, the regional airline where he has been CEO since 1999, said until Thursday that he 'holds commercial, multi-engine and instrument ratings.' (By Friday, after POLITICO's inquiries, the word 'commercial' had been removed. The other reference was removed sometime in the last six months.) Oriana has the story.
— Questions about Bedford's credentials do not appear to threaten his prospects for heading the FAA. He didn't respond to multiple attempts by POLITICO to get his comment, nor did Republic. The White House referred questions to DOT. The department in a statement defended Bedford, saying that 'Bryan never misrepresented his credential; it was an administrative error that was immediately corrected.'
Aviation
SCRUTINY RAMPS UP: Urgent checks of Boeing 787 Dreamliners are underway in India, and investigators have recovered a black box from the wreckage of the London-bound Air India flight that crashed shortly after takeoff Thursday in the city of Ahmedabad, killing all but one of the 242 people aboard as well as others on the ground. (It was the first fatal incident for the Dreamliner, and the cause remains unknown.)
FALLOUT CONTINUES: We reported last week that Boeing whistleblower Sam Salehpour's attorneys are urging the FAA to release what they say are agency findings that support many of Salehpour's prior allegations of serious quality issues with the company's 787 and 777 planes. On Friday, his lawyers also sent letters to the top Democrat and Republican on the Senate Homeland Security Committee's investigations panel — pushing them to enter the fray.
— 'We ask that the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations call on the FAA to release the [investigative report] without further delay,' they wrote to Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), who chairs the panel, and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), the ranking member. They sent a similar letter to Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), too. (At a hearing last year, Hawley torched Boeing's then-CEO, David Calhoun, as lawmakers probed various issues at the plane-maker.)
On The Hill
THE WAITING GAME: Reconciliation text from the Senate Finance Committee is anticipated today, though several blanks in the language are expected — likely for thorny issues such as Medicaid provisions, Meredith Lee Hill, Jordain Carney and Benjamin Guggenheim report. One looming question: How will the panel address, if at all, the House's proposed $250 and $100 annual fees on electric and hybrid vehicles, respectively? Both the Senate Commerce and Environment and Public Works Committees didn't tackle that issue, leaving Finance as the predicted landing spot.
KEEP 'EM: The Electric Drive Transportation Association is urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other key Republicans to 'provide a reasonable transition period,' as opposed to an 'abrupt termination,' for various tax credits the GOP is targeting, such as the consumer EV one known as 30D.
— The group also opposes the EV and hybrid fees idea.
Ethics
DIGGING THROUGH ASSETS: The Office of Government Ethics released Trump's annual financial disclosure Friday, and your MT host took a look. Some notable tidbits:
— The president reported two investment accounts with Tesla stock valued at up to $300,000. (These accounts were in a section of his report where officials are supposed to log certain assets and investment income for themselves as well as any spouse and dependent children, according to OGE.)
— In the same accounts, he noted Boeing stock valued at up to $80,000.
Automobiles
GO FASTER: NHTSA is trying to speed up the process for applying for an exemption to federal motor vehicle safety standards that require car designs to have human-interfaceable parts, such as steering wheels and brakes, DOT Secretary Sean Duffy announced Friday. The driverless car industry applauded the move. Chris has the details.
— 'The [process] has been rightly criticized for taking years — bogging developers down in unnecessary red tape that makes it impossible to keep pace with the latest technologies,' Duffy said in a statement.
THE SPECIFICS: In a public letter Friday, NHTSA's chief counsel, Peter Simshauser, said the agency is going to update its application instructions to try to help ensure that firms submit all of the materials up front, minimizing the need for the agency to request additional information. (Prior reviews have tended to involve 'extensive follow-up with applicants.') NHTSA added that it's 'adopting a more dynamic and flexible approach' to both evaluating and overseeing exemptions. The agency said further details will be released sometime in the future, and it anticipates that the changes will mean it reaches decisions on most requests 'within months rather than years.'
DOGE WATCH
A DIP IN POPULARITY: Elon Musk's time as a temporary government employee was controversial, to say the least, but he enjoyed strong backing from Republicans as DOGE cut through federal agencies. He's now lost some of that support, though, a new poll from the AP and NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found. (In early June, Musk and Trump's relationship seemingly imploded in a social media spat, though the dispute recently cooled off. The survey of 1,158 adults was conducted around the same time.) Here are some key findings:
— Musk's 'very favorable' rating among Republicans dipped to 26 percent from 38 percent in April — and those with a 'somewhat favorable' opinion of the billionaire increased from 29 percent to 38 percent, while 'somewhat unfavorable' ticked up from 15 percent to 18 percent.
The Caboose
SOME LEVITY: The House is enjoying recess this week, the Senate is in town for only a few days ... but things are still busy in D.C. as Republicans work through the upper chamber's version of the reconciliation package. We thought we'd kick Monday off with a bit of fun — trivia!
— Earlier this year, your MT host sat down with Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), a former car dealership owner, for an interview. We asked Moreno, who was elected in 2024 and sits on the Senate Commerce Committee, what his favorite mode of transportation is. What do you think he said? Here are three options. One is his actual response and the others are made-up. We'll provide the answer tomorrow morning:
— The Funny Bus in Cleveland.
— Any car that has a 'shit ton of horsepower.'
— A high-speed powerboat.
A FEW TIDBITS: Moreno also told us he doesn't plan to be in Congress for 'more than a term or two.' Boosting the U.S. auto industry, he added, is his top priority. And he bemoaned high car prices and dinged the Inflation Reduction Act.
Transit
ANY CHANGE?: Notice a difference on your commute? Drop us a line if you do. WMATA rolled out automatic train operation technology on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines this past weekend. (It was previously deployed on the Red Line.)
The Autobahn
— 'Air India Was Struggling Long Before 787 Crash.' Wall Street Journal.
— 'How the Man in Seat 11A Became a Plane Crash's Sole Survivor.' New York Times.
— 'Is There a Safest Seat in a Plane Crash? We Asked Experts.' New York Times.
— 'New Fees on Floating Garages Are Trump's Latest Effort to Revive U.S. Shipbuilding.' New York Times.
— 'Boeing CEO cancels air show appearance visit after India crash.' Reuters.
— 'May imports drop 9% at busiest US seaport on 145% China tariffs.' Reuters.
— 'Boeing Sees Need For 44,000 New Jets; Cautions on Slow Output.' Bloomberg.
— 'Delta, United Suspend Flights to Tel Aviv After Iran Bombing.' Bloomberg.
— 'China Boosts Tesla Self-Driving Plan With Car-Data Export Rules.' Bloomberg.
— 'EPA aims to boost biofuel volumes in transportation fuel.' E&E News.
— 'Port of LA warns that tariffs are still disrupting global trade.' POLITICO Pro.
On The Calendar
— Nothing on our radar!
Know of an event we should have on our calendar? Let MT know at transpocalendar@politicopro.com.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
17 minutes ago
- Forbes
What Fissured Workplaces Really Mean for Workers
For much of the 20th century, companies were structured very hierarchically. Workers reported to those above them in the organizational structure, with a CEO or company president at the top. But many companies today have adopted a different model that has significant implications for workers. Welcome to the rise of the fissured workplace. LONDON - NOVEMBER 03: Production staff on the weekly fashion magazine, Grazia edit the magazine in ... More a temporary office inside the Westfield shopping centre on November 3, 2008 in London. For one week Grazia magazine is being produced in the Westfield shopping centre and are offering shoppers free make-overs, fashion consultations and advice on pursuing a modeling career. (Photo by) WHAT ARE FISSURED WORKPLACES? Economist David Weil describes fissured workplaces as an arrangement where lead companies outsource core functions to smaller firms. This can mean a hotel chain subcontracting cleaning services out to a staffing agency rather than directly hiring cleaners; a financial services firm that routes tech support through a separate company instead of taking on these workers as employees; or a franchise model where independent operators bear responsibility for hiring, wages, and even work conditions. In these cases, companies can, for the most part, still manage to meet core basic needs and provide services. The hotel can house guests, the financial services firm can make clients' money, and the franchise can serve customers food. But they all do this by relying on workers who are not classified as employees, creating additional layers and rungs between organizations rather than within them. We can trace the rise of fissured workplaces back to the 1980s, when increasing numbers of companies began adopting this model over the previous one of more direct employment. And since then, fissured workplaces have grown remarkably. Today, fissured workplaces are not just affecting those in jobs like cleaning and food service that have historically yielded low wages and uncertainty. Now, even professional jobs that require college or even advanced degrees—accounting, tech, human resources--are becoming subject to the whims and vicissitudes of the fissured workplace. PROS AND CONS OF THE FISSURED WORKPLACE Proponents of fissured workplaces will argue that they allow firms to reduce costs, streamline operations, and of course, maximize profits. And there is a case to be made that fissured workplaces, and the short-term contracts that characterize them, give workers flexibility and freedom to pursue options freely, move in and out of the work force when desired, and more leverage to follow opportunities that are right for them. But there are numerous disadvantages to this type of arrangement as well: low wages, lack of benefits, and precarious employment, potential health and safety violations. Workers who rely on client firms can have a very difficult time establishing long-term employment, since their work is often contract based. And even when those in the fissured workplace secure full time employment, the distance from the lead company can make the work experience very different than the case of direct employment. Benefits like health care coverage, disability insurance, and sick or vacation leaves may be harder to attain in a fissured workplace model with more short-term employment and fewer direct employees. Companies can also exploit health and safety standards more easily in fissured workplaces by saddling contractors they hire with more dangerous or even illegal tasks. Data from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries bears this out, with reports showing that in 2017 12% of workplace injuries that resulted in fatalities were among short-term contract workers, a much higher percentage than that of full time employee counterparts. Sociologist Dustin Avent-Holt and Don Tomaskovic-Devey find that earnings inequality is on the rise in many countries, and much of this is related to the disparities between firms—the larger ones that offer jobs with security, benefits, and wages, and the smaller ones these companies contract with, that offer none of these. Coronavirus outbreak, Covid 19, remote working, video conference in a company. Man sitting at his ... More desk holding his head with his hands. (Photo by: Tesson/Andia/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) IMPLICATIONS Maybe one of the most important takeaways from the rise of fissured workplaces is that they can contribute to worker pessimism and doubts about the economy and how well it is working for them. For workers who are on short term contracts with a client company, subject to potentially dangerous work, and doing jobs that do not provide benefits or high pay, it can be very hard to hear that companies are adding jobs, unemployment is low, and that the stock market is strong. The rise of fissured workplaces--and all the detriments they bring to workers--is an important reminder to pay attention not just to the quantity but the quality of jobs in our economy. It's also worth asking about the implications of fissured workplaces on consumers. Organizations in the health care industry have become increasingly reliant on this model for hiring and staffing, but this approach could theoretically have adverse consequences for patients who rely on long-term, close relationships with providers to advocate for them and ensure quality care. And it's not too hard to imagine disastrous (and gross!) outcomes for patrons of a restaurant franchise in the fissured workplace if the workers face pressure to skirt health and safety regulations. Fissured workplace models are becoming increasingly common, but it's worth asking exactly what economic, social, and physical costs consumers and workers are paying as a result.
CBS News
an hour ago
- CBS News
Freed Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel calls for new Israel-Hamas deal to bring "all of the 50 back home"
London — The day Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel was freed after nearly 16 months of captivity at the hands of Hamas terrorists in Gaza, he tells CBS News that he denied one final demand by his captors. "I did wave. I didn't say thank you," he said in an interview at the Israeli Embassy in London on Thursday, during an event to mark 650 days since the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023, when Siegel and 250 others were taken hostage. Siegel, who was released Feb. 1, said his captors told him he should offer them his thanks during the handover, but he declined in a final act of defiance. His wife Aviva Siegel, sitting by his side during the interview, had words of praise for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. She was also taken captive, but was released after about two months, along with other women and children, under a temporary ceasefire and hostage-for-prisoner exchange deal. "Bibi Netanyahu is not a terrorist," she said, using a common nickname for the Israeli leader. "He's a good man with a heart and wants good for his country." The Siegels have become two of Israel's most prominent former hostages, using their freedom to remind the world often of the 50 people still believed to be held captive in Gaza. Netanyahu said earlier this month that 20 of those hostages are still thought to be alive. The Siegels lived in the progressive-leaning kibbutz Kfar Aza, less than two miles from the Gaza border in southern Israel. Many residents in the area have a history of supporting the peace movement and coexistence with Palestinians. Keith Siegel has been adamant during indirect Israel-Hamas negotiations, which the U.S. is helping to broker along with Qatar and Egypt, that a new deal "must be signed." "I am alive because of President Trump's efforts that secured an agreement, and also the cooperation and the efforts of my government and the mediating countries," he told CBS News. "We are home. We are alive because of agreements that were signed, and another agreement must be signed to get all of the 50 back home as soon as possible." Among the ideas being debated is a controversial proposal floated by Israel's far-right defense minister to move all of Gaza's roughly 2 million residents into a compact, "humanitarian city" along the Palestinian territory's southern border with Egypt, from which they would not be permitted to leave. Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, a fierce critic of the Netanyahu government, has drawn parallels to the Nazi horrors perpetrated against Jewish people during WWII, slamming the idea of what he said would be "a concentration camp" for Palestinians. The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health said Friday that more than 58,000 people had been killed in the war. The steadily rising death toll — which cannot be independently verified as Israel does not permit foreign journalists into Gaza — has led to accusations of a genocide being carried out. Aviva Siegel, asked if she believed the term was fair to use in relation to Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip, said "Hamas is responsible" for everything happening in Gaza, adding: "They need to release the hostages and let the people free." She told CBS News she often sends text messages to President Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and that she believes he is doing his best to get the remaining hostages home. The Seigels said their next planned overseas trip is to the U.S., to meet with Witkoff and hopefully, Aviva said, with Mr. Trump. She said she loved former President Joe Biden and also wanted to thank him for helping to secure her release during his administration, but added that she believes Mr. Trump may be able to wield even greater influence over matters in the Middle East.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Arsenal Complete the Signing of £52m Premier League Forward
Arsenal Secure Noni Madueke in £52m Transfer from Chelsea Arsenal have completed the signing of winger Noni Madueke from Chelsea in a move worth up to £52 million, as reported by Sky Sports News' Dharmesh Sheth. The deal includes a fixed fee of £48.5 million, with an additional £3.5 million in potential add-ons. Madueke, 22, has signed a five-year contract at the Emirates and becomes Arsenal's latest statement signing as they look to strengthen their wide attacking options. Chelsea, for their part, have made a tidy profit, having bought Madueke from PSV Eindhoven for £29 million just two-and-a-half seasons ago. With this sale, Chelsea's player sales this summer have now reached £92 million, helping to balance their books as they continue to reshape their squad. Madueke's Journey from PSV to Premier League Star Madueke's time at Chelsea was filled with moments of promise, but regular starts were limited due to intense competition for places. His electric pace, direct dribbling and ability to take on defenders have long been admired, and Arsenal are banking on these attributes adding an extra edge to their frontline. At PSV, Madueke was a standout, earning plaudits for his performances in the Eredivisie and European competitions. Although his Chelsea spell had flashes of brilliance, consistency remained a challenge. Now, with a fresh start under Mikel Arteta, Madueke will hope to rediscover his best form. Arsenal's Attack Strengthened Madueke's arrival boosts Arsenal's options on the wing, alongside Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Arteta has been keen to increase competition in wide areas, and Madueke's profile perfectly suits Arsenal's high-energy, attacking style. As Sky Sports reports, 'Madueke will not be on Arsenal's pre-season tour of Asia as he has been given extra time off after playing at the Club World Cup with Chelsea.' This decision allows him to rest and integrate smoothly into Arsenal's plans without immediate pressure. Chelsea's Financial Gains For Chelsea, the deal reflects smart business, with a £23 million profit on a player signed relatively recently. Their sales strategy this summer has already brought in £92 million, funds that could be reinvested in Mauricio Pochettino's evolving project at Stamford Bridge. A Chelsea spokesperson reportedly said, 'We thank Noni for his efforts and wish him well in the next chapter of his career,' underlining the club's acknowledgement of Madueke's contributions during his time in west London. Our View – EPL Index Analysis As an Arsenal supporter, this signing feels like a thrilling statement of intent. Noni Madueke brings something Arsenal have been craving: an unpredictable, one-on-one winger who can break down low blocks and create chaos in the final third. Mikel Arteta has been steadily building a young, dynamic squad, and Madueke fits perfectly into that vision. While Bukayo Saka has been sensational on the right, his workload has been immense. Having Madueke as both cover and competition could help maintain Saka's levels across a long, demanding season. There is also excitement about Madueke's personality — he's known for his self-belief and hunger, traits that fans at the Emirates will embrace quickly. Yes, there is some risk, especially given his injury history and the adaptation required, but at 22, this is a player with enormous upside. Seeing Arsenal outmanoeuvre other clubs to secure such talent from a direct rival feels like another sign that the Gunners mean business, not just to challenge but to win trophies. The future is looking very bright in north London.
