CHC CHAIR URGES SENATE TO SUPPORT APONTE NOMINATION

 
Washington D.C.:  Chairman Charles A. Gonzalez (TX 20) released this statement today to urge bipartisan support to nominate Mari Carmen Aponte to Ambassador of El Salvador, a post she has served with distinction as a recess appointee.

"Ambassador Mari Carmen Aponte has been an asset to the Foreign Service and a highly effective advocate for the United States in Central America. Prior to her appointment, she built a stellar reputation as a business woman, a civil rights leader and in the legal field through her work as a partner and practioner for several law firms and as Executive Director as the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration.

"Her diplomatic work has had real results. Amb. Aponte is known as El Salvador's  "Honest Broker." She has pushed for democratic values at every chance- increasing government transparency  and maintaining  a strong U.S. presence against Cuba‐Venezuela influence. After brokering a partnership that providing USAID to El Salvador for the first time, she oversaw the first Salvadoran Government Ethics committee.
 
"In fact, Amb. Aponte has excelled at every professional challenge and her diplomatic work has had tangible benefits for the U.S. in the region.  That is why I am profoundly disappointed that her nomination is being held hostage by political games in the Senate. 
 
"A Republican party-line vote to block a highly-qualified and proven diplomat on political terms is simply irresponsible, petty and a disservice to the country and our Foreign Service. I sincerely hope that Senator Rubio, who has supported Amb. Aponte’s nomination in the past, will continue to recognize Amb. Aponte's skill experience and proven record of success.
 
Undoubtedly, El Salvador is a complex political environment and we must ensure it remains one of our greatest allies in the region. This is an opportunity to put partisan political considerations aside, do that which promotes U.S. interest and recognize the talent and dedication of Amb. Aponte.”