Key takeaways:
- Phillip Washington has withdrawn his nomination to lead the Federal Aviation Administration due to “unfounded Republican attacks”.
- His nomination faced strong criticism from Republican lawmakers over a number of issues, including his slim aviation credentials and potential legal entanglements.
- The White House respects Washington’s decision to withdraw his name and praised his public service record and qualifications to lead the FAA.
Phillip Washington, President Joe Biden’s pick to lead the Federal Aviation Administration, has withdrawn his nomination due to “an onslaught of unfounded Republican attacks” on his service and experience, according to a White House official.
Washington’s nomination was first announced by the White House last year, but faced strong criticism from Republican lawmakers over a number of issues, including his slim aviation credentials and potential legal entanglements. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation was scheduled to vote on Washington’s nomination on Wednesday, but that vote was cancelled after it became clear he did not have enough support.
The White House respects Washington’s decision to withdraw his name and praised his public service record and qualifications to lead the FAA, the official said. Democrats and allied independents still might have pushed the nomination through, but key senators on their side balked at supporting Biden’s pick.
Washington’s withdrawal was confirmed Saturday night by a person familiar with the situation who insisted on anonymity to discuss the matter. It is unclear who Biden will nominate to replace Washington, but the White House is expected to move quickly to find a suitable candidate.
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