January 2025 – As the United States Senate evaluates President Donald Trump’s cabinet selections, a trio of nominees important to the automotive aftermarket and racing industries are on Capitol Hill for their confirmation hearings.

In particular, SEMA is monitoring three hearings:

  • Former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy (R-WI), Secretary of Transportation nominee
  • North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior nominee
  • Former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), Administrator of the U.S. EPA nominee

Following the hearings, the Senate committee that is responsible for overseeing the department for which the nominee has been appointed will hold a vote on whether to confirm the nominee. Once approved by the committee, which simply requires a majority, the full Senate will then vote on the nomination (a simple majority required for the nominee to be confirmed). 

If you want to show support for these nominees, SEMA encourages you to use SEMA’s online tool to send a letter now. 

Background on the 3 Nominees

Sean Duffy 

Former Rep. Sean Duffy is nominated to lead the Department of Transportation. A Wisconsin native, Duffy promises to prioritize road safety, while noting that transportation is the federal issue that most impacts Americans’ daily lives. 

Doug Burgum 

Nominated to lead the Department of the Interior, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is a passionate outdoor recreationist and enjoys off-roading in his side-by-side.  

Lee Zeldin 

If appointed Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, former Rep. Lee Zeldin from New York vows to stop electric vehicle mandates. 

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