Senate confirms Pete Buttigieg as transportation secretary

The big picture: The Department of Transportation will play an important role in President Biden’s plans to fight climate change and revitalize the country's infrastructure as part of his "Build Back Better" agenda.

• During his confirmation hearings, Buttigieg pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by pushing the use of electric vehicles and introducing new federal automotive fuel economy standards.
• While Republican senators warned of potential disagreements in regard to updating infrastructure, they also said they looked forward to having future discussions with Buttigieg on the topic.

Catch up quick: The Senate has already confirmed several other Cabinet nominees:

• Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines
• Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin
• Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen
• Secretary of State Antony Blinken