CAPAC Members Congratulate Secretary Gary Locke on his Confirmation as the next U.S. Ambassador to China

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-32), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), and other Members of CAPAC released the following statements congratulating Commerce Secretary Gary Locke on becoming the first Chinese American to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to China. The Senate unanimously confirmed Locke by a voice vote earlier today.

Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC Chairwoman (CA-32)

"At a time when it’s still rare to see Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the highest levels of government, Secretary Locke has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations. He did so as the first Chinese American to serve as Governor, then as the first Chinese American Commerce Secretary, and now as the first Chinese American to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China. There are very few people in our nation’s history that can match the record of service and accomplishments that Secretary Locke already has, and I know he will do an outstanding job representing our nation’s interests abroad.”

Congressman Mike Honda, CAPAC Chair Emeritus (CA-15)

“A longtime friend and trailblazer in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, Gary Locke is an excellent pick as US Ambassador to China. During my years as Chair of CAPAC, I travelled extensively with Gary, visiting Asian American communities around the country, and know that he has a nuanced understanding of America’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity within all our communities. I have no doubt that Gary will represent us well in all economic, social, and environmental policy-related conversations with China.  Once again, President Obama has proven his commitment to building a diplomatic team that is reflective of our nation’s diversity and maintains the perspective and talent needed to ensure our country’s long-term sustainability.”

Congressman Faleomavaega (AS)

 “It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke on his unanimous Senate confirmation as U.S. ambassador to China.  As an Asian Pacific American and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs’ Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I am thrilled to hear the news of Secretary Locke’s confirmation and I have every confidence that he will be successful in his new role.  Throughout his years of public service, Secretary Locke has been a shining model for the Asian-Pacific American community, exemplifying that with hard work the American dream can come true.  He has demonstrated his leadership time and again, and I congratulate him today on his most recent achievement.”

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (HI-2)

“Gary Locke will make a strong ambassador to China. His work as governor and Commerce Secretary has helped open China’s market for our businesses, increasing exports and creating jobs. As the son and grandson of Chinese immigrants, Gary knows the importance of opportunity and he will be a strong advocate for America. I can think of no one more qualified to manage this critical and complex strategic relationship than Gary Locke.”

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-9)

“I congratulate Secretary Gary Locke on his confirmation as the new Ambassador to China. As a Representative of one of the most diverse districts in the nation, which has many direct ties with China, I appreciate the wealth of expertise and knowledge that Secretary Locke brings to the Ambassadorship at a very sensitive and critical time in the relationship of our two nations.  I know that he will be an outstanding Ambassador who will improve and strengthen what is truly a vital bilateral relationship.”

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-5)

“Gary Locke is a longtime friend, and I know he has the intelligence, negotiating skills, and business savvy to be a highly effective and transformative U.S. Ambassador to China. I congratulate him on his confirmation, and know that his leadership will help fortify our relationship with China, strengthen the position of American workers, and that his success in this position will be an integral part of our economic future.”

Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (CNMI)

“Political and economic relations with the People's Republic of China are of particular importance to the Northern Mariana Islands. China is our neighbor. Having a person of Gary Locke's expertise and background representing U.S. interests will certainly benefit our islands and every part of America that has ties with China. I congratulate Secretary Locke and wish him every success as our new Ambassador.”
 

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently Chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.