Five-term Senator John Kerry is the new secretary of state and state lawmakers are happy about the choice.
In a statement released by U.S. Senator Joe Manchin Tuesday, Manchin praises John Kerry as being uniquely qualified for the position.
“Over four decades of public service, from the battlefields of Vietnam to the floor of the United States Senate, he has established his credentials as one of our country’s brightest statesmen,” said Senator Manchin. “America is exceptional because it does exceptional things, as John likes to say. But it does exceptional things because it has exceptional men like John.”
Manchin added that he will be missed greatly in the United States Senate, but confident Kerry will continue to serve the nation diligently as the next Secretary of State.
U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller also released his own statement regarding the appointment calling Kerry one of his closest friends.
Rockefeller also referred to Kerry as being a proven leader, an admired public servant and an expert on foreign affairs with strong credibility and stature across the globe.
“We know we have a brilliant and focused Secretary of State to follow in the footsteps of Secretary Clinton, who has proven herself as one of the most capable Secretaries of State this country has ever known,” said Senator Rockefeller. “I look forward to seeing John work hard and undoubtedly excel as he strives to solidly position our nation around the world.”
The Senate overwhelmingly confirmed President Barack Obama’s choice Tuesday in Washington D.C.