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Pelosi Statement on Obama Nominations for Transportation, USTR and SBA Positions

December 19, 2008

Contact:Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. — Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today on President-elect Obama’s nominations of Congressman Ray LaHood of Illinois as Secretary of Transportation, former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk as United States Trade Representative, and Karen Mills as Administrator of the Small Business Administration:

"President-elect Obama’s nomination of Congressman Ray LaHood to be Secretary of Transportation brings pride to the entire House of Representatives, and brings another principled and effective leader to the new Administration. Throughout his tenure in the House, Ray LaHood has demonstrated a commitment to public service and a willingness to reach across the aisle. As Transportation Secretary, he will help lead the charge to get our economy moving with 21st century investments in keeping Americans moving.

"I commend President-elect Obama for selecting Ron Kirk to serve as our next U.S. Trade Representative. Ron Kirk is an outstanding public servant who is well versed in the intricacies of international trade, who also understands the concerns of the millions of Americans who are worried about their economic future. He and the new Administration will work to craft fair trade policies that put American workers first.

"America’s small businesses play an essential role in our economy and are an engine of job growth, which is why I am pleased that President-elect Obama has selected a talented woman with a background in venture capital and lending, Karen Mills.

"I look forward to working with each of these nominees to move our country forward."