President Barack Obama on Friday afternoon nominated San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro to be the next secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
"I am nominating another all-star who has done a fantastic job in San Antonio over the past five years, Julian Castro," Obama said in the State Dining Room, where he was flanked by Castro and Shaun Donovan, the current HUD secretary. Donovan is expected to be named White House budget director.
Obama lauded Castro's mayoral term, saying that Castro has "become a leader in housing and economic development ... (and) cares deeply about the people he serves and the city he loves."
The president also pointed out Castro's work in revitalizing San Antonio and for not forgetting about his humble upbringing.
"Julio ha vivido el sueno Americano" Obama said in Spanish, referring to Castro realizing the American dream. "And it's precisely because he's lived out that American dream that he'll work his tail off so that more people can travel that same path."
Castro said he had some big shoes to fill and thanked Obama for the opportunity.
"To be your nominee, President Obama, is simply a blessing," Castro said.
Castro told the crowd about how he and his brother, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, lived in rental homes on the city's West Side and took public transportation.
"It was there that the both of us got the sense of what is possible in America, and an understanding that just because you are of modest means does not mean your aspirations or opportunities ought to be limited," Castro said. "And it certainly means you can have the talent to succeed and achieve the American dream."
Castro said his time in office has made him realize that cities across the nation are growing and that housing is a top priority.
"I look forward to being part of the department that helps ensure that millions of Americans all across the country have the chance to get good, safe, affordable housing and to reach their American dreams," Castro said. "If confirmed, I stand ready to assist you, Mr. President, and your administration and local officials across the country to ensure that we do housing right, and because of it, more Americans achieve their dreams."
Castro's nomination will now go before the Senate for confirmation. Obama urged senators to approve Castro and to make the confirmation process quick and without delay.
The mayor's appointment means it will now be up to his colleagues to find his successor.
The remaining 10 council members will appoint a new mayor who will serve until the next mayoral election in 2015.