Daniel Maffei designated to chair US Federal Maritime Commission

Maffei is a sitting member of the FMC and replaces Michael Khouri in the chairman's role.

A New York native, Maffei was a member of the US House of Representatives for two terms. His previous professional experience includes serving in the Department of Commerce during the Obama administration and, earlier in his career, working as a Capitol Hill aide and as a broadcast reporter.

Serious challenges

'Due to the effects of COVID-19 and an unprecedented import boom, we are dealing with serious challenges to America’s international ocean transportation system — challenges that the FMC has a vital role in addressing,' Maffei said, 'both on its own as an independent agency and in cooperation with other agencies.'

Collegiality

Maffei thanked Khouri for his 'years of diligent service to the FMC and to the country,' adding: 'He and I sometimes have policy differences but, as chairman, he was inclusive of all the commissioners in making important decisions and worked collaboratively with stakeholders in the ocean transportation system to reach consensus solutions. I will seek his advice as a fellow commissioner and friend.'

Maffei also hopes to maintain close working relationships with Commissioners (Rebecca) Dye, (Louis) Sola and (Carl) Bentzel, 'all of whom I deeply respect.'