Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Funded His Reality TV Show with Money From Companies He Regulates
NEWS & RESEARCH
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, a former reality TV performer, is filming "The Great American Road Trip,” a cross-country road trip with his family that is generously sponsored by companies with business before his department. On May 11, 2026, Citizens for Ethics and Responsibility in Washington (CREW) filed a legal complaint with the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) alleging that Duffy violated federal gift and travel rules. Toyota, Boeing, and United Airlines each contributed $1 million companies to the show.
SOURCES: NPR | CREW Legal Complaint
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Toyota, Boeing, and United Airlines—all regulated by the DOT—have collectively spent $5.2 million lobbying the US government so far in 2026. Corporate largesse has been reciprocated. As Transportation Secretary, Duffy has waived large fines against American Airlines and Southwest Airlines and gutted consumer-friendly flight cancellation policies.
SOURCES: Wall Street Journal | Forbes | Straight Arrow News
HOW TO FIX IT
Federal action:
Pass the Closing Bribery Loopholes Act of 2026, which expands the definition of “official act” to prevent overly narrow readings that undermine enforcement against bribery.
Support the call for the DOT Inspector General to determine whether Duffy violated federal gift and travel rules.
Conduct congressional hearing on whether Duffy violated a general prohibition on using one’s government title, position, or authority to promote or endorse products, brands, or services.
The Office of Government Ethics (OGE) should also investigate Duffy’s commercial endorsements and determine if they constitute a violation.
Legislation: H.R.3471 - - Closing Bribery Loopholes Act
