Barrett swearing in, US ambassador to Luxembourg
MILWAUKEE - Tom Barrett was sworn in on Thursday morning, Dec. 23 as the next U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg. The swearing-in was held at the federal courthouse in downtown Milwaukee.
Administering the oath was Judge Lynn Adelman who served with Barrett in the Wisconsin legislature.
Barrett himself worked in the same courtroom as an intern and clerk more than 40 years ago.
"This is literally the place where I started my career in law and public service -- this very courtroom," Barrett said. "It is with great enthusiasm and humility that today I begin the next chapter of my career as the ambassador to Luxembourg."
Tom Barrett
Barrett indicated he looks forward to this new assignment.
"I think it'll be exciting. I think it'll be challenging -- and it's one that I am truly, truly honored to serve," Barrett said. "I wouldn't be here if it were not for my wonderful wife, Kris, who has been with me every step of the way."
Barrett officially resigned his position as mayor of Milwaukee on Wednesday, Dec. 22 after nearly 18 years in office. Barrett described his job as mayor as the "hardest job" he's ever had in his life but also the most rewarding.
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The Barrett resignation automatically elevated Common Council President Cavalier Johnson to acting mayor. Johnson will serve as acting mayor until the completion of a special election.
The Common Council met Thursday morning, Dec. 23 to set the date of that election on the days of the already-scheduled votes: the primary is Feb. 15 and the general election is set for April 5. The winner of that election will serve the remainder of Barrett’s term, which runs through 2024.
Tom Barrett signs his letter of resignation as Milwaukee mayor
President Joe Biden nominated Barrett as ambassador in August after the previous ambassador, Republican Randy Evans, returned to private law practice. The U.S. Senate confirmed Barrett last week. He expects to be in Luxembourg sometime in January. But he will still keep his home in Milwaukee.
Barrett served five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and was both a state senator and state representative. He ran unsuccessfully for governor three times.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
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