Yesterday, the administration's very long search for a nominee to head USAID finally ended, with the announcement of Raj Shah. In all the excitement, let's not lose sight of who has so capably and maturely led the agency for all these many months, Alonzo Fulgham. And on this day of all days, as the nation pays special tribute to its military veterans, let's extend that same honor to the men and women who serve our nation in the civilian ranks. To Alonzo and his team who have been double-hatted, even triple-hatted in many cases, through this long transition period, I salute you.
For the past year, policy commentators (including me) have, in the course of pushing the administration to name a USAID Adminstrator said, "no offense to Alonzo, he's doing a great job, but it's not the same as having the political backing of the White House." But let's be real: in saying we mean no offense, we have, of course, been completely offensive. I regret that casualty in our efforts as Alonzo's record and character is one to which all civil servants should aspire. From serving as a Peace Corps volunteer to serving USAID in hotspots such as Bosnia and Afghanistan and perhaps the hottest spot of all -- this past year as Acting Administrator where his hard work and unflappable nature have indeed been remarkable.
To Alonzo and his team -- thank you.
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