Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg addressed the nation’s ongoing supply chain problems on CNN’s “State of the Union” Sunday, telling host Jake Tapper that disruptions could continue into next year.
“Well, certainly, a lot of the challenges that we have been experiencing this year will continue into next year,” Buttigieg said. “But there are both short-term and long-term steps that we can take to do something about it. Look, part of what’s happening isn’t just the supply side. It’s the demand side. Demand is off the charts. Retail sales are through the roof.”
Buttigieg says supply chain troubles could last until next year https://t.co/RIQ76qkmRW pic.twitter.com/LQkyJhnPwG
— The Hill (@thehill) October 18, 2021
Another question about @SecretaryPete's paternity leave: if he's so proud of it, and it's so wonderful, why not announce it in advance? Why did @USDOT only admit he was gone for 2 months, mid-crisis, when reporters started asking questions? https://t.co/MsT5Wgq1IL via @mediaite
— Joel Pollak (@joelpollak) October 17, 2021
Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg says America need both pieces of spending legislation Democrats are currently debating in Congress.
"America needs both of those…not only to make sure we have the right infrastructure but to make sure life gets better in this country." pic.twitter.com/kvzi8D5zWU
— State of the Union (@CNNSotu) October 17, 2021
“Our role is to be an honest broker, bring together all of the different players there, secure commitments and get solutions that are going to make it easier,” he added.
Tapper then confronted Buttigieg for taking paternity leave during the crisis.
“Why didn’t you or the Department of Transportation make an official announcement when you went on parental leave? Why did you not appoint an acting secretary while you were away?” pressed the CNN host.
Buttigieg responded by praising the Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg.
