Elaine Chao testifies before a Senate Commerce Science and Transportation Committee confirmation hearing on her nomination to be transportation secretary on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., January 11, 2017. Photo by Carlos Barria/REUTERS

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao resigns after Capitol violence

Politics

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao is resigning effective Monday, becoming the highest ranking member of President Donald Trump's administration to resign in protest after the pro-Trump insurrection at Capitol.

In a statement Thursday, Chao, who is married to Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell, said the violent attack on the Capitol "has deeply troubled me in a way that I simply cannot set aside."

She said her department will continue to cooperate with President-elect Joe Biden's designated nominee to head the department, former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg.

Support PBS News Hour

Your tax-deductible donation ensures our vital reporting continues to thrive.

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao resigns after Capitol violence first appeared on the PBS News website.

Additional Support Provided By: