United States.- The United States Senate is set to convene on Thursday to consider Juan Carlos Iturregui’s nomination as ambassador to the Dominican Republic, marking a pivotal moment nearly seven months after President Joe Biden put forward the Puerto Rican native for the role.
Iturregui’s confirmation hinges on securing at least 51 votes from the 100-member Senate. If successful, he would follow in the footsteps of Hans H. Hertell as the second ambassador of Puerto Rican descent appointed by Washington to serve in the Dominican Republic. Hertell held the position from 2001 to 2007.
Iturregui’s nomination represents the second appointment during Biden’s presidency to fill the vacancy left by Robin Bernstein following the 2021 change in administration. Bernstein, who was appointed by Republican Donald Trump, served as the U.S. ambassador to the Dominican Republic.