Statement

U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) today praised President-elect Obama's selections for his national security team. Obama announced this morning that he is nominating Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) to serve as Secretary of State, former Deputy Attorney General Eric Holder to serve as Attorney General, and Susan Rice to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Whitehouse said:

"In Senator Clinton, President-Elect Obama has chosen a Secretary of State who will help restore the world's confidence and faith in our nation. She brings massive international recognition and clout, and clearly understands President-elect Obama's strategy for a strong, clear change in America's message to the world. This was a wise and exciting choice.

"Our new Attorney General must restore the Justice Department's proud tradition of independence and excellence, and insulate it from improper pressure even when it comes from the White House. No one will fill that role more capably than Eric Holder. I served in the Clinton Administration with Mr. Holder, and can attest to his vast experience, his calm judgment, his legal skill, and his unswerving loyalty to the Department and its principles. I have no doubt that he will offer the independent, wise leadership necessary to repair the terrible damage of the Bush years. He has my enthusiastic support.

"Susan Rice will bring a smart, pragmatic approach to the difficult task of repairing America's fractured relationships within the United Nations. Hers will be an experienced and authoritative voice within the Security Council as the Obama Administration grapples with the challenges of Iran, Afghanistan, and Darfur."