DOT New Officials Will Lead FMCSA And FRA

DOT New Officials Confirmed to Lead Key Transportation Agencies

Four new leaders have joined the U.S. Department of Transportation after being confirmed by the Senate on October 7, 2025. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the appointments, saying the DOT new officials will strengthen safety, improve freight systems, and support the Department’s modernization goals. The Senate confirmed the nominees in a close 51–47 vote. The decision filled key leadership roles at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), as well as other important positions across the Department.

DOT New Officials Bring Experience

The DOT new officials include Michael Rutherford, Gregory Zerzan, Derek Barrs, and David Fink.

• Rutherford now serves as the first Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy.
• Zerzan becomes the new General Counsel.
• Barrs takes over as FMCSA Administrator.
• Fink will lead the FRA.

Each of these leaders has years of experience in transportation, law, or safety. Together, they form a leadership group that Secretary Duffy described as “ready to deliver results for American transportation.”

DOT New Officials Focus on Freight and Safety

Michael Rutherford will guide freight policy and national logistics strategy. His office will manage new grant programs, support supply chain improvements, and work with state and local DOTs. He will also coordinate efforts between trucking, rail, and maritime freight systems.

At FMCSA, Derek Barrs will lead the agency responsible for commercial truck and bus safety. His priorities include reducing crashes, improving enforcement tools, and strengthening cooperation with drivers and fleets. Barrs previously held senior roles in state enforcement and commercial vehicle operations.

At the same time, David Fink will direct the FRA’s rail safety programs. He plans to update inspection standards, promote new technology, and expand rail infrastructure programs. Fink said he hopes to improve coordination between rail and highway freight to keep goods moving safely and efficiently.

DOT New Officials Strengthen Policy and Oversight

Gregory Zerzan, as General Counsel, will oversee legal matters across all DOT agencies. He will manage a team of more than 400 attorneys who advise on rules, contracts, and compliance. His leadership will also guide the Department’s response to future regulatory and legal challenges.

With these DOT new officials now confirmed, the Department expects smoother coordination between its policy, legal, and safety branches. Their work supports Secretary Duffy’s broader goal of building a safer and more reliable national transportation system.

Impact on the Trucking and Freight Industry

The addition of DOT new officials may have a direct impact on truck drivers and carriers. Barrs’ leadership at FMCSA could bring more consistent enforcement and better communication with the industry. Rutherford’s freight policy role may also lead to improved logistics and infrastructure planning, helping reduce congestion and shipping delays.

For rail, Fink’s new position at FRA could lead to closer coordination between railroads and trucking companies. His focus on technology and modernization could help both sectors handle growing freight volumes more efficiently.

DOT New Officials Mark a New Chapter

Secretary Duffy said the arrival of these DOT new officials represents “a new chapter” for the Department. The confirmations come at an important time as DOT works to manage supply chain issues, invest in infrastructure, and maintain safety across all modes of transportation.

These leaders bring experience, balance, and focus to their roles. With them in place, the Department of Transportation moves forward with renewed direction and a stronger foundation for the future of freight, rail, and highway safety.