Obama lauds Gillibrand pick

President Obama just issued a statement praising the appointment of Representative Kirsten Gillibrand for the US Senate seat that Hillary Clinton left to become secretary of state.

"Governor Paterson made a wonderful choice in appointing Kirsten Gillibrand to fill Secretary Clinton’s seat in the United States Senate. I am confident that she will continue Secretary Clinton’s distinguished service to the people of New York and to our country.

"During her career, Kirsten has been a strong voice for transparency and reform in government and shares the belief that government should be open, accessible and work for all of our citizens. In Congress and as special counsel for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, she worked to strengthen public and private partnerships to invest in infrastructure and New York’s economy.

"At this time of great challenge, I know that Kirsten has the integrity, character, and dedication to public service to help us achieve our greatest goals."

Clinton also added her kudos in a statement: "Today I congratulate Kirsten Gillibrand on her appointment by Gov. Paterson to serve as senator from New York. Kristen is an intelligent and dedicated public servant and a dear friend. I'm pleased that this seat, which has been my great honor to hold, and which has in its history been held by leaders like former Sens. Daniel Patrick Moynihan and Robert F. Kennedy, will be in such capable hands. And I look forward to working with Sen. Gillibrand as we meet the challenges and seize the opportunities facing New York, our nation and the world."