UPDATED Monday, April 29, 10:06 p.m. EDT: President Obama officially nominated Anthony Foxx this afternoon. Read The Root’s analysis here of how the move helps Obama clear the diversity hurdle.
Earlier:
Barack Obama is widely expected to nominate Charlotte, N.C., Mayor Anthony Foxx on Monday to head the Department of Transportation, a White House official told the Associated Press.
Foxx would be the president's first black nominee among new Cabinet members appointed for the second term. The president has come under heavy criticism over the lack of diversity among his picks.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told the AP that Foxx is credited with breaking ground on several important transportation projects, including the Charlotte Streetcar Project to bring modern electric tram service to the city, as well as a third parallel runway at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
If confirmed by the Senate, the rising political star would replace outgoing Secretary Ray LaHood. Foxx made a splash during the 2012 Democratic National Convention when he delivered a moving speech about his hometown, which he said changed his life.
Read more at USA Today.