Skip to content

Transpo Sec Rumor Mill: Rep. Ray LaHood the Leading Candidate

The Hill is reporting that Illinois Representative Ray LaHood, described as a centrist Republican, is in talks with the Obama team about taking a Cabinet post, most likely as Secretary of Transportation. The official announcement could be made as early as Friday.
lahood.jpgPhoto: Wikipedia

The Hill is reporting that Illinois Representative Ray LaHood, described as a centrist Republican, is in talks with the Obama team about taking a Cabinet post, most likely as Secretary of Transportation. The official announcement could be made as early as Friday.

If LaHood is chosen, it would come as something of a surprise, as his name has so far escaped widely circulated short lists for the position. His district includes Peoria and Springfield, and he did not seek re-election this year. His recent voting record indicates a willingness to buck the party line on transportation measures: This year he supported the Saving Energy Through Public Transportation Act and the Passenger Rail Investment Act. We’ll have more on this potential selection as the story develops.

Photo of Ben Fried
Ben Fried started as a Streetsblog reporter in 2008 and led the site as editor-in-chief from 2010 to 2018. He lives in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, with his wife.

Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.

More from Streetsblog New York City

Tree-Mendous: City Officials Must Do More To Create Shady Conditions As Temps Soar

June 18, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines: Nothing But Knicks Edition

June 18, 2026

The Dream: NYPD Says It Will Tow Away Every Car South of Canal at 7 PM Tonight For Knicks Parade

June 17, 2026

‘Pay-to-Play’ Jersey Rep. Josh Gottheimer Wants to Kill Citizen Idling Enforcement That Protects NYC Air

June 17, 2026

City Budget Needs $20M For School Streets: Advocates

June 17, 2026
See all posts