ATA said Graves (left), who once worked for his family’s trucking company, Graves Truck Line, was selected from 75 candidates.
Speaking today at ATA’s annual conference, Canary said the announcement that Graves will eventually take over his post was made to avoid any conflict of interest.
“He made it clear that he is the governor of Kansas and I am the president & CEO of ATA until January 13, 2003,” Canary told Fleet Owner. “Anyone that charges criticism of conflict of interest would be doing it as political agenda.”
Canary said his intention is to let Graves know about issues of importance in the industry.
“I’ll keep him advised of what I am doing, but he won’t interfere in any way with my decisions,” Canary said.
Following a press conference in Topeka, KS, Graves is scheduled to address ATA at its meeting today.
