Pekoske receives second TSA Administrator confirmation

The Senate has confirmed David Pekoske for a second term as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator, a role in which he will continue federal responsibility for domestic surface transportation security.

President Joe Biden nominated Pekoske for a second term in May 2022, leading a workforce of 60,000 employees and the security operations at nearly 430 airports nationwide while overseeing the security of pipelines, rail, and mass transit systems.

“It is a privilege to continue serving the American people alongside an incredible workforce of dedicated and highly skilled professionals,” Pekoske said. “I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure our nation’s transportation system remains secure and facilitates the movement of people and cargo.”

Pekoske said that critical next-term priorities include achieving and implementing pay equity, continuing efforts to invest in technology, and strengthening partnerships with transportation stakeholders and international governments.

Before joining the TSA, Pekoske was an executive in the government services industry, leading teams responsible for providing counterterrorism, security, and intelligence support services to government agencies.

Pekoske served as the 26th Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, culminating in a Coast Guard career that included extensive operational and command experience. He was a Commissioner on the Cyberspace Solarium that made recommendations on cybersecurity strategy for the United States. In addition, he has been twice awarded the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal.

Pekoske’s first-term focus initiatives included improving X-ray, identity management, and on-person screening technology while spearheading bolstering cybersecurity resilience within critical transportation infrastructure, including oil and natural gas pipelines; freight, passenger and transit rail; airports and airlines.