Derek Barrs has Senate Confirmation Hearing
The position of FMCSA Administrator is one that has seen numerous changes of the guard throughout the years, regardless of which political party holds power.
Whether it is Raymond Martinez of the first Trump Administration or Meera Joshi of the Biden Administration, the position seems to change hands often.
The latest person up to bat is Derek Barrs, who has numerous years of experience in dealing with road travel, whether it is Chief of the Florida Highway Patrol or leading the FMCSA Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program. He had his confirmation hearing on July 16th, 2025.
Details
“My work has always emphasized open communication and collaboration—with industry,
law enforcement, and safety organizations,” Barrs said in his opening statement at the hearing. “I understand that FMCSA’s actions impact an entire industry, and I am committed to ensuring that agency decisions are informed, balanced, and transparent. If confirmed, I will continue to strengthen relationships between government and stakeholders, working together on our shared goal of improving roadway safety, as well as addressing critical safety issues.”
The confirmation hearing was very run-of-the-mill, and ran side-by-side with two other confirmation hearings for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
If you would like to see the hearing, you can do so at the proper Senate webpage, though we have to warn you: Barrs was asked the fewest questions of the three.
Conclusion
By this time you likely know the routine. Next, the Senate will go to vote as to whether or not they want any of these three individuals to be Administrators of various agencies in the federal branch, and if they get 51 votes they will get the position.
“The trucking industry touches all our lives. Commercial drivers transport over 70% of our nation’s freight and share the road with us every day. These professionals are the backbone of our economy, working long hours—often away from their families—to ensure we have the goods we rely on,”
Barrs also said in his opening statement. “I deeply respect their dedication and understand the delicate balance between enhancing safety and enabling efficient freight movement. I salute and value the American truck driver and thank them for their work.”
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