Overview
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is slated to headline a Nov. 11 meet-and-greet in Wisconsin for Michael Alfonso, his son-in-law and a congressional candidate for the seat Rep. Tom Tiffany is vacating.
- A source familiar with the matter told NOTUS the stop was not cleared with the White House, and President Donald Trump has not endorsed a candidate in the race.
- A Department of Transportation spokesperson said Duffy’s appearance is strictly personal and does not reflect an administration position or endorsement.
- An insider tied to the White House called the move a “world-class stupid decision,” and reporting points to a similar flap in May when Duffy was listed on a fundraiser that conflicted with Trumpworld’s plans.
- The episode lands as Duffy faces separate scrutiny over air-traffic staffing during the shutdown and NASA leadership, with Trump reappointing Jared Isaacman to lead NASA earlier this week.