27 May 2005

U.S. Senate confirms new ambassador to Canada

The following article is excerpted from the 26 May 2005 edition of the “Toronto Star”.

The U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of David Wilkins, speaker of the state House of Representatives, as ambassador to Canada….

"I'm gratified and very appreciative," Wilkins, 58, said after learning his nomination will now move to the White House for the final, formal action by President George W. Bush….

Senators approved Wilkins' appointment with no objections. He will replace Paul Cellucci….

Wilkins went through screening Wednesday as Senator Norm Coleman (R-Minn.), chairman of a subcommittee that handles ambassador appointments, quizzed him on trade, border access and other security issues before pledging to push his nomination through.

During the hearing, senators praised Wilkins as just the kind of diplomat to help ease "strained" relations with Canada at a critical time when the United States is trying to rally allies….