STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT’S NOMINATION OF MARIA ECHAVESTE AS NEXT U.S. AMBASSADOR TO MEXICO

“As the proud grandson of Mexican immigrants, I am pleased by President Obama’s nomination of Maria Echaveste, a natural leader as the first woman and Latina to serve as the next ambassador to Mexico. This is a historic appointment and marks the new era in U.S.-Mexico relations.

Few people combine the depth of experience, expertise and commitment that Maria Echaveste brings to this crucial position. Echaveste has served our country in Washington, both at the Department of Labor and at the White House and she has demonstrated her commitment to our nation through her outstanding public service.

As Mayor and a fourth-generation Angeleno, I am committed to strengthening our nation’s relationship with our southern neighbor and that is why my first trade mission as Mayor was to Mexico, which has led me to maintain close relations with President Enrique Peña Nieto to the benefit of our entire community. Our unique relationship calls for the Senate to act swiftly to confirm Maria Echaveste as our next Ambassador.