CONGRESSIONAL HISPANIC CAUCUS (CHC) APPLAUDS RECESS APPOINTMENT OF MARI CARMEN APONTE TO BE U.S. AMBASSADOR TO EL SALVADOR
August 20, 2010
(Washington DC) – The Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) applauds President Barack Obama for his announcement that he intends to recess appoint Mari Carmen Aponte as U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador.
“Mari Carmen Aponte’s commitment and dedication to our country has colored her entire career,” said Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, Chairwoman of the CHC. “Starting with her participation in the prestigious White House Fellows program under President Carter, where she worked to maintain safe, affordable housing options for all Americans, to her role as the Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration where she served as a liaison between Puerto Rico and the mainland, representing our nation’s 4 million Puerto Ricans. There is no doubt in my mind that Ms. Aponte will serve and represent the United States well, strengthening our relationship with El Salvador, and furthering our role as a global leader.”
Originally nominated on December 9, 2009, Ms. Aponte has been waiting more than 8 months for her appointment to be confirmed by the Senate. We commend President Obama for acknowledging the importance of our relationship with El Salvador and making this recess appointment.
“Ms. Aponte’s ability to forge relationships and bridge barriers will make her an exceptional Ambassador,” said Representative Charles Gonzalez, First Vice Chair of the CHC. “At a time when our international relationships are more important than ever, the United States will benefit greatly from having someone so qualified and dedicated to represent us in El Salvador.”
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