Raimondo Confirmed as United States Secretary of Commerce

Raimondo Confirmed as United States Secretary of Commerce

Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo has been confirmed by the United States Senate as United States Secretary of Commerce.

Senator Jack Reed offered his congratulations on Tuesday afternoon, Tweeting the following:

BREAKING: The U.S. Senate just voted 84-15 to confirm @GovRaimondo as Secretary of  @CommerceGov. This means she will soon assume the Commerce Department’s top job & paves the way for  @LGDanMcKee to become RI’s 76th Governor. Congrats & best wishes to both!

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Rhode Island Lt. Governor Dan McKee is expected to be sworn in as Rhode Island Governor later on Tuesday, after Raimondo formally submits her resignation.

“This is a proud day for Rhode Island and our country,” said Rhode Island Democratic Party Chair Joseph McNamara on Tuesday. “Governor Gina M. Raimondo’s confirmation as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce by the U.S. Senate -  with an overwhelming margin of 84-15, proves what we knew all along – she’s a recognized leader.

“As Rhode Island’s first woman Governor (and 2nd woman Treasurer before that,) she took on the toughest challenges – schools, economy, infrastructure and a once-in-a-century pandemic. Her ability to lead with talent, strength, and humor got things done. This is the skill-set she’ll need to help President Biden and this country overcome America’s financial problems, by supporting business, creating jobs, and strengthening our economy,” he said.
  
“We are also delighted for Lieutenant Governor Daniel McKee as he assumes his new role as Governor. His years of service to Rhode Island have laid a solid groundwork for him to address the daunting challenges and opportunities before him, and we wish him the very best,” McNamara said.

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