NEW YORK, Dec. 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg expressed gratitude on Friday that transportation remains one of the less ideological areas in American policy, allowing for cooperation across political divides.
Speaking at a briefing at the New York Foreign Press Center, Buttigieg said his experiences in office reinforced how transportation provides a rare space for bipartisan action in a highly polarized Washington, citing the passage of the 1.2-trillion-U.S.-dollar infrastructure bill in 2021, though the legislation's impact continues to unfold.
"I think that helps to explain why transportation is one of the less ideological places in the U.S. domestic policy landscape. It's an area where, no matter your ideology, you can see the benefits," Buttigieg said in response to a question from Xinhua about the lessons of his tenure that could shape the future of transportation policy.
Buttigieg also highlighted the importance of information -- particularly in empowering consumers and responding to crises -- as another key lesson learned during his time in office.
Looking back at his legacy, Buttigieg pointed to several key achievements, including the success of the bipartisan infrastructure package, improvements in aviation and railroad worker protections, and a significant decline in roadway deaths.
Buttigieg said his focus for the next 38 days will be advancing policies and directing funding toward deserving infrastructure projects. "You can expect billions of dollars more in announcements before we leave," he said, as he and his team prepare to wrap up their work before his departure.
Looking ahead, Buttigieg emphasized his passion for issues like the economic recovery of U.S. industrial Midwest, where he grew up.
"I will find ways to work on that, whether it's in office or otherwise," he said. ■
