Daniel Johnson’s service as Secretary of Transportation began on Oct. 1, 2025. Appointed to the office by Governor Josh Stein, Johnson builds on his eight years of experience serving in senior executive roles at the N.C. Department of Transportation, including most recently as deputy secretary and general counsel.
Johnson’s service with the Department of Transportation continues a career that has largely been devoted to public service. Following his graduation from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he accepted a commission in the U. S. Navy and served as a surface warfare officer on the USS Blue Ridge.
Upon completion of his military service, Johnson worked for U.S. Sen. Max Cleland, of Georgia, where he focused on issues related to military affairs and veterans. Following a return to UNC-Chapel Hill to attend law school, Johnson served as an assistant district attorney in Wake County before going into private practice.
A native of Hickory, Johnson now lives in Raleigh with his wife and two children.