The American Trucking Associations issued the following statement today from ATA President and CEO Chris Spear regarding the passing of former Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta:

"Secretary Mineta was a rare commodity in today's divisive, politically charged environment. He was the essence of civility and integrity; a true leader. I'm honored to have had the privilege to work with him during the past two decades, including during his tenure as Secretary of Transportation. The example he set is something many in Washington today can and should try to replicate.

"Secretary Mineta achieved the highest of heights in his extraordinary career, yet never forgot who he was and how he got from there to here. When he told his story, you understood what it means to be an American."