Washington Secretary of State Sam Reed is saluting President Obama’s selection of former two-term Governor Gary Locke to become U.S. Commerce secretary. Reed says the nomination is great news for job-creation in America’s most trade-dependent state.

Reed’s statement:

“I’m delighted that Governor Locke is President Obama’s choice for the U.S. Commerce Department. He will be a tireless advocate for increased international trade and promoting the businesses and products of Washington state and America. This has been a central theme of his distinguished career in public and private life, and I am certain he will carry this passion with him to the Obama Cabinet.

Although of different parties, I had the pleasure of working side-by-side with Gary Locke in his role as a capable House Appropriations chairman and as two-term governor. In his work in the private sector and as an attorney specializing in trade and foreign relations, it was clear that his priority was to increase international understanding and promoting free and fair trade policies and exchange visits that are resulting in our state becoming a world leader in two-way trade.

I recall his successful work to land the Boeing 787 assembly plant for Everett, his numerous overseas trade missions, and his effort to bring the “Priorities of Government” to state budgeting. I believe he will bring all of his many skills to bear on this important new challenge.

As the nation’s first Chinese-American governor, Gary Locke’s own story, which he once called the “Great American Dream,” is an inspiring reminder of the impact of family, education and commitment to a cause greater than oneself.”