Appointment of Close Obama Associate as U.S. Ambassador Good News for Canada

(The Canadian Press – Lee-Anne Goodman)

The close friendship between the incoming U.S. ambassador to Canada and President Barack Obama is delighting those who have been hoping for a better relationship with the United States. David Jacobson, a 57-year-old Chicago lawyer who served as a key fundraiser during Obama’s historic run for White House, got the official nod on Thursday after weeks of speculation.

The president announced his pick for Canada along with a handful of other appointments to countries including Mexico, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.

I am grateful that these individuals will help represent our nation abroad during this important time for our country and the world,” Obama, who was in Egypt on Thursday to deliver a speech to the Muslim world, said in a statement. “They bring a depth of experience and I look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.”

Jacobson replaces George W. Bush confidante David Wilkins, who left the post the day before Obama’s inauguration in January. While his appointment has yet to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, there’s no indication it will be held up. In the wake of a series of senior Obama cabinet appointees stepping aside because of past tax issues, the administration has been careful to do extensive and meticulous vetting of its would-be ambassadors to avoid any further embarrassments.

Kory Teneycke, spokesman for Prime Minister Stephen Harper, said the PMO welcomed working with Jacobson once his appointment has been confirmed. “It’s good news,” he said, calling the U.S. “our friend, our neighbour, our ally, our largest trading partner.” Read more here.