The confirmation of President-elect Barack Obama's nominee for Transportation Secretary was delayed just before the hearing was to begin. Former Congressman Ray LaHood (R., IL) had his confirmation hearing postponed until at least next week as the Senate Commerce Committee is still waiting to get some background paperwork from the President-elect’s transition team – information that is traditionally provided on nominees.

President-elect Barack Obama is set to announce Rep. Ray LaHood, Republican of Illinois, as his choice for transportation secretary. The moderate-Republican will be nominated to lead a department that will oversee much of the vast public works programs proposed by the President-elect intended to stimulate the economy.