Obama has trumpeted his infrastructure spending, including about $48 billion within the stimulus package, but has balked at raising the fuel tax. There is little indication that Obama would change his position and secure a new revenue source for infrastructure funding. His proposal to use funding dollars, freed up through the ending of wars in the Middle East, for infrastructure works as a stump speech talking point but is a non-starter on the Hill.
With dwindling funding and little appetite in Congress to boost coffers, the choice of the next transportation secretary will be crucial. There is talk that Ray LaHood, a former Republican House member, might return if Obama is re-elected. Chairman of the House Transportation Committee John Mica, R-Fla., and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell have been reported as possible Romney picks for the DOT top spot.