(The Center Square) – Former U.S. Sen. David Perdue, a Georgia native, accepted an offer from President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the next U.S. ambassador to China.
Announced Thursday evening, Perdue is the third Georgian nominated to join Trump’s administration. Trump said he has been a “loyal supporter and friend.”
“As a Fortune 500 CEO, who had a 40-year international business career, and served in the U.S. Senate, David brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China,” Trump said in his announcement. “He will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain peace in the region, and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders.”
Perdue served as a U.S. Senator representing Georgia from 2015 to 2021. He unsuccessfully ran for governor of the state in 2022.
In a social media post, Perdue said he is excited for the opportunity.
“Having lived in Asia on two occasions, I understand the gravity of this responsibility and look forward to implementing President Trump’s strategy to make the world safe again and to represent the United States’ interests in China,” he explained.
The nomination was received with acclamations from other Georgia Republicans.
“Another strong nomination from Trump,” said U.S. Rep. Rick Allen. “Perdue’s international business expertise will suit him well in carrying out President Trump’s peace-through-strength policies as our next Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China.”
Perdue will join former U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler, who was the second Georgian nominated for a spot in Trump’s administration. If confirmed, Loeffler will lead the Small Business Association.
Former U.S. Rep. Doug Collins, who ran against Loeffler for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in 2020, is Trump’s choice for secretary of Veterans Affairs.
“Georgia is rolling DEEP in the Trump Administration,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Collins of Perdue as Trump’s latest appointment.