Deborah Hersman, according to some news reports, is the leading candidate to head the Dept. of Transportation. If true, that would come as something of a disappointment. Many advocates were hoping for someone with a technical background to lead the department, especially in the areas of passenger rail or bike/ped planning.
Hersman currently heads the NTSB, an agency well known for its hostility to lightweight trains. And she has been the leading proponent for giving the FTA broad powers to impose safety rules on public transit operators. Whereas the NTSB is only an advisory body, she would have real power as head of DOT to actually impose such changes. That is a worrisome thought.
Hersman giving a road safety presentation to schoolkids. Car seats and bike helmets kiddies!
Systemic Failure 
Oh dear indeed. This could spell the end of decent rail reforms necessary to make passenger rail a serious option in the US. I suspect she’s being seen as a strong candidate due to her outspokenness on the 787 problems. Just what we need, someone to make all our other transportation options as difficult, expensive and annoying as flying.
Have her head up FAA.