Gov. Branstad issues statement on being nominated to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to China

DES MOINES – Today, Gov. Terry E. Branstad issued the following statement in regards to being nominated to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to China in the Trump-Pence Administration:

I love Iowa and I love my country. For 22 years, I have been honored and privileged to serve the people of Iowa as their governor. My family and I will always be grateful to Iowans for trusting me to lead and putting their faith in me to serve.America is at a crossroads, and the American people are looking for bold change to renew our position as the leader in the world. To once again hold America up as that ‘shining city upon a hill’ as President Reagan so proudly proclaimed. By electing President-elect Trump on November 8, this message was sent loud and clear by the voters.

During our 30-year friendship, President Xi Jinping and I have developed a respect and admiration for each other, our people and our cultures. The United States – Chinese bilateral relationship is at a critical point. Ensuring the countries with the two largest economies and two largest militaries in the world maintain a collaborative and cooperative relationship is needed more now than ever. The President-elect understands my unique relationship to China and has asked me to serve in a way I had not previously considered.

After long discussions with my family, I am honored and humbled to be nominated to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to China. I also accept President-elect Trump’s charge to prioritize collaborative policies that will Make America Great Again. This is an extraordinary opportunity. I believe that the respect and admiration built over a decades-old friendship between President Xi and I give me an opportunity to help the President-elect and serve Iowa, the United States and the world for the better.

This new mission to continue serving my state, and my country, in a new role is essential to building a bright future for our children and grandchildren. With my wife Chris by my side, I look forward to the work ahead but we will never have Iowa far from our hearts.

For more information on Gov. Branstad’s experience and relationship with China, please click here.

Additional information on a transition will be forthcoming, Branstad’s office says.  His nomination is subject to Senate approval.  Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds would take over, making her the first female governor in the state’s history.

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) also issued a statement today the announcement:

“President-elect Trump has made an excellent choice in nominating Governor Terry Branstad as the United States Ambassador to China; his experience with China speaks for itself and he will excel in this new role,” stated Ernst. “Having worked alongside the Governor for many years, I know he will exemplify the same leadership, thoughtfulness, and dedication in his role as Ambassador to China on behalf of the United States as he did for the people of Iowa. I’d like to congratulate Terry, his wife Chris, and their children, and wish them the very best as they embark on this new adventure.

“Additionally, I am thrilled to congratulate Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds who will become the first woman to serve our state as governor. The Lieutenant Governor is a tireless advocate for Iowa and travels around our great state to ensure she is hearing directly from those who know best: Iowans. Iowa has been, and will continue to be, in good hands under her leadership.”

Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds also issued the following statement in regards to Gov. Terry Branstad being nominated to serve as U.S. Ambassador to China in the Trump-Pence Administration:

President-elect Trump’s decision to nominate Gov. Branstad as Ambassador to China speaks volumes about the character, talent and experience of Gov. Terry Branstad. As America’s longest-serving governor, I can think of no one more qualified and ready to represent Iowa and the United States of America on the world stage than Gov. Branstad. His hands-on experience in advancing trade opportunities for Iowa farmers and Iowa companies coupled with his strong and lasting relationship with President Xi Jinping, as well as other leaders in China will serve him well in strengthening U.S.-China relations.Gov. Branstad has been my mentor and friend, devoting his life to advocating for Iowa. His record-setting public service as governor speaks for itself and has, without a doubt, made this state better. Gov. Branstad has never backed down from a challenge. I’m excited and proud to see him accept the responsibility as top envoy between the U.S. and China, and know that Iowans will be proud of his service on the world stage. I have been honored to be a full partner with Gov. Branstad in this Administration and know that the experience I’ve gained over the last six years has prepared me well for this next chapter of service to all Iowans.

My family and I wish to extend Gov. Branstad, Chris and their family our most sincere congratulations as they accept this role together, knowing full well they will never be far from Iowa.