Heinrich, Luján Introduce Former Senator Tom Udall At Confirmation Hearing Before Senate Foreign Relations Committee

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced former U.S. Senator Tom Udall, President Biden’s nominee to be the next U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa, at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. 

“During the time that the both of us served together here in the Senate, Tom Udall proved to be a constant friend and close mentor to me,” said Heinrich. “Tom showed all of us how to act with decency and integrity, how to stay true to your principles, but also how to find the common ground. These are all qualities that I am confident will serve him well in this new diplomatic role, representing America’s interests abroad.” 

VIDEO: Heinrich Introduces Former Senator Tom Udall To The Senate Foreign Relations Committee [HD DOWNLOAD LINK HERE]

“New Mexicans know Senator Tom Udall as a true statesman who cares about others, leads by example, and treats people with dignity and respect. Tom served New Mexicans for decades in public service, and I look forward to him bringing that same energy to the world stage as a U.S. Ambassador,” said Luján. “Tom is a highly-qualified nominee, and it was an honor to be with him on this exciting day.”

VIDEO: Luján Introduces Former Senator Tom Udall To The Senate Foreign Relations Committee [HD DOWNLOAD LINK HERE]

Tom Udall has a long and distinguished career in public service. He most recently served two terms as United States Senator from New Mexico (2009-2021) and served five terms as United States Representative from New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District (1999-2009). While in office, Udall was a notable champion for the environment, for Native Americans, for government and election reform and for resolving international disputes peacefully, if possible. 

Earlier in his career, Udall was elected twice as Attorney General of New Mexico (1991-1999) and also served as an Assistant United States Attorney. His Senate Committee assignments included the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Appropriations, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee on Indian Affairs, the Committee on Rules and Administration, the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the International Narcotics Control Caucus. Udall has a B.A. degree from Prescott College, a Bachelor of Law from Cambridge University, and a J.D. from the University of New Mexico.

A link to the full Senate Foreign Relations Committee can be found here.