Obama taps Charlotte mayor Anthony Foxx for transportation secretary (VIDEO)

President Barack Obama nomimated North Carolina mayor Anthony Foxx to become his new transportation secretary today.

Foxx, 41, has been mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina, since 2009 where he oversaw a number of transportation projects.

Foxx got a test run at the national spotlight when his city played host to the Democratic National Convention in 2012. The mayor spoke at the convention, calling Obama "a man who pulled our economy back from the brink."

"This is a president who plans to give every child an opportunity to succeed," Foxx said. "This is a leader who believes all Americans should have a fair shot to go as far their talents can take them."

Foxx is credited with improving the transportation system in Charlotte including adding a third runway at Charlotte/Douglas International Airport and breaking ground on the Charlotte Streetcar Project, a plan to to bring modern electric tram service to the city.

"I know Anthony's experience will make him an outstanding transportation secretary," Obama said at an announcement ceremony in the White House East Room.

"He's going to be extraordinary effective."

If confirmed, Foxx would replace outgoing Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, the administration's only Republican.

The nomination of Foxx, an African-American, will likely ease some criticism Obama has received over not having enough diversity in his cabinet. The president also nominated two women to this administration last month.

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