UMVA has learned that a heated exchange took place between Transportation Secretary and two Democratic senators, who accused him of allowing companies under his oversight to bankroll his highly publicized "Great American Road Trip."
The trip, sanctioned by the bipartisan America 250 commission, was a 10-state road trip with his family to encourage tourism, funded by the nonprofit organization "The Great American Roadtrip." This organization received donations from major travel and car companies, including Toyota, Boeing, and Enterprise.
During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Sens. Patty Murray and Kirsten Gillibrand argued that donations tied to the "Great American Road Trip" raised concerns about corporate influence over the Secretary. They claimed this was particularly troubling as Americans grapple with high gas prices.
"You've been recording a promo of yourself and not working to lower the cost, so this show is incredibly out of touch with where Americans are," Murray said, criticizing the Secretary's actions.
The Secretary denied that promises were made to corporate sponsors of the nonprofit. However, Murray referenced a pitch deck released by the nonprofit outlining perks associated with different donation levels.
The Secretary turned the tables on Murray and Gillibrand by highlighting donations they received from industries and groups tied to policies they regulate. He asked Murray about a $2 million donation from the healthcare industry, suggesting it bought influence.
The Secretary then rattled off specific donation amounts Murray has received from major healthcare corporations, including $102,000 from Pfizer.
Gillibrand also faced scrutiny, as the Secretary noted that her campaign has received $7 million in political contributions from law firms and attorney groups.
Despite this, Gillibrand maintained that her donations had "nothing to do with" the topic at hand. The Secretary, however, accused Gillibrand of benefiting from donations while criticizing him for his road trip.
In defense of his participation in "The Great American Roadtrip," the Secretary argued it is about bringing Americans together. He believes that experiencing the country through travel can unite America, despite partisan differences.
