Contact: Eben Burnham-Snyder, Rep. Ed Markey, 202-225-2836

WASHINGTON (January 29, 2013) – Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) today hailed the confirmation of his Massachusetts colleague John Kerry as the next Secretary of State. Below is the statement of Rep. Markey, the Dean of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation:

“John Kerry’s confirmation to represent the United States around the world means that we will continue to be respected, listened to, and involved in promoting peace and prosperity.

“Americans can be confident that John Kerry is the most qualified, knowledgeable, and passionate person to represent our interests around the world. Going from Hillary Clinton to John Kerry at the State Department is like the Red Sox going from Ted Williams to Carl Yastrzemski, both possessing hall of fame talent and passion for the job.

“While I will miss John Kerry's tireless work on behalf of the people of Massachusetts, I know he will take the values and vision of the Bay State with him everywhere he goes. I wish my friend John Kerry my best wishes.”