Obama Nominates John Kerry For Secretary Of State

Quick confirmation expected.

Image by J. Scott Applewhite / AP

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama formally nominated Sen. John Kerry to be his next Secretary of State Friday, the first major personnel announcement since the election.

“I’m very proud to announce my choice for America’s next Secretary of State — John Kerry,” Obama said as Vice President Biden, top administration officials, and Teresa Heinz Kerry looked on.

“He is not going to need a lot of on-the-job training,” the president added, pointing to his military service and long-time experience on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Joking that his former debate sparring partner will now be one of his closest advisers, Obama said, “nothing brings two people together better than two weeks of debate prep.”

“I am confident that the Senate will confirm you quickly,” Obama said, pointing to what is expected to be a smooth confirmation process in the Senate.