Washington, D.C. – Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced his intent to nominate Rahm Emanuel to serve as Ambassador to Japan and Nick Burns to serve as Ambassador to China:
“I am grateful that President Biden will nominate people with a commitment to public service and a deep understanding of American democracy to represent our values abroad. Rahm Emanuel and Nick Burns have experience that will be critical as we build coalitions around the world to compete successfully against the Chinese government’s rising influence.
“For too long, Washington has been asleep at the switch while Beijing has pursued a ‘China First’ policy to write the global rules of the road from technology to trade. Ambassador Burns is a distinguished diplomat who is well-prepared to promote our values and interests against the Chinese government’s illiberalism.
“I’ve known Rahm Emanuel since he was Senior Advisor to President Clinton. His commitment to our country is matched only by his tenacity in the face of tremendous challenges. He has the breadth of experience and skills necessary to represent America’s critical interests with one of our key allies.”