Elaine Chao
Republican Former Cabinet
Summary
Former Transportation Secretary who resigned after January 6, calling the attack "entirely avoidable" and saying she was deeply troubled by it.
In Their Own Words
Key Statements
“
Yesterday, our country experienced a traumatic and entirely avoidable event as supporters of the President stormed the Capitol building following a rally he addressed. As I'm sure is the case with many of you, it has deeply troubled me in a way that I simply cannot set aside.
“
It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Resigning effective January 11
Timeline
May 2168
Secretary of Labor under George W. Bush
First Asian-American woman in Cabinet
January 31, 2017
Confirmed as Transportation Secretary
Joined Trump cabinet
January 7, 2021
Resigned after January 6
First cabinet member to resign after attack
January 11, 2021
Resignation took effect
Left before end of term
Why This Matters
Credibility & Background
Positions Held
- U.S. Secretary of Transportation (2017-2021)
- U.S. Secretary of Labor (2001-2009)
- Director, Peace Corps (1991-1992)
Analysis
Reasons for Opposition
- 01 Said the January 6 attack was entirely avoidable
- 02 Said the events deeply troubled her
- 03 Resigned after January 6
Documentation
Sources
News January 7, 2021
Trump riot fallout: Elaine Chao quits Cabinet
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/07/trump-riot-fallout-officials-quit-over-capitol-mob-attack.html
News January 7, 2021
Elaine Chao resigns as transportation secretary
https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/elaine-chao-resigns/2021/01/07/7fcbe17a-511f-11eb-bda4-615aaefd0555_story.html
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