Mayors Support John Bryson for Commerce Secretary

At a time when the nation is focused on jobs, we need a Commerce Secretary who knows American business - a leader who has led a company through crisis, created jobs and has a firsthand understanding of the challenges facing US companies.  And that's exactly the experience that President Obama's nominee John Bryson has. 

Mayor Bob Foster of Long Beach, California says of his friend John Bryson:

"John Bryson is an excellent choice for Secretary of Commerce.  I have known John for more than 30 years as a person of impeccable integrity with a strong sense of public service.  

John and I worked together at Edison International.  He was a unique CEO at Edison in that he always made sure business success did not mean a disregard for the environment or social progress.  Under his leadership, Edison developed the largest portfolio of renewable energy in the country and made energy efficiency as one of its top priorities.  It’s an unusual business practice for a company to spend millions on reducing the use of its product, but John understood that it was in the best interest for customers, California, and the company to reduce electrical use.  His strong sense of social purpose helped Edison become an environmental leader with a worldwide reputation.

John is the kind of person you need in business today.  He understands the need for profit but he also knows that success should include environmental sustainability and good corporate citizenship."

In addition, the U.S. Conference of Mayors spoke out about John Bryson, urging his confirmation in a letter to Senate leaders:

"Mr. Bryson brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors that will help create jobs and make America more competitive in the global economy. Most importantly, he knows that the private sector is the engine for job creation. As local leaders, we know that John Bryson can encourage economic growth, help provide jobs for our residents, and forge a direct connection with Mayors and the needs of our cities. He knows how to get the job done with fewer resources. He knows how to manage and lead under pressure. He is the ideal candidate to become Commerce Secretary."

You can read more from voices ranging from the COO of Facebook to the former Treasury Secretary John Snow on why John Bryson should be our next Commerce Secretary.