Republican Senator Ted Cruz has expressed his disappointment in President Biden’s nominee to lead the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Phil Washington, calling him “objectively indisputably unqualified to lead the FAA.” Washington, who has no aviation experience, is currently the CEO of Denver International Airport.
The Senate committee has delayed the vote on his nomination due to concerns over his qualifications.
The FAA has issued a rare call to action bulletin, urging airlines to step up vigilance at airports in light of recent runway safety concerns.
With no head of the FAA for a year since March 2022, the push to confirm Washington’s appointment has been met with resistance from Republicans who believe he is not the right person for the job.
Some have speculated that Washington’s appointment may be due to identity politics rather than his qualifications.
