Obama nominates Rockefeller aide to lead federal agency regulating auto industry

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Rockefeller aide nominated to lead DOT agency

WASHINGTON — The White House on Friday named a top aide to Democratic Sen. Jay Rockefeller of West Virginia to lead a federal agency that regulates the auto industry.

The Obama administration nominated David Strickland as administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Strickland is senior counsel to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

Strickland has helped shape legislation on auto safety and fuel efficiency standards. President Barack Obama’s first choice, safety advocate Chuck Hurley, withdrew his name after criticism from environmental groups.