Heinrich Statement On Senate Confirmation Of Senator Tom Udall To Be Ambassador To New Zealand, Samoa

WASHINGTON (Oct. 26, 2021) – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued a statement after former-U.S. Senator Tom Udall received Senate confirmation to be the next U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa. 

“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," said Heinrich. "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] 

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.