anthony_fox_and_barack_obama.jpgWASHINGTON (AP) – President Barack Obama nominated Charlotte, N.C., Mayor Anthony Foxx, a rising star in Democratic politics, to run the Transportation Department.

 

Obama announced the nomination from the White House Monday afternoon.

The official requested anonymity because the official was not authorized to discuss the nomination ahead of the president.

Foxx is the first black nominee among Obama's picks for open spots in his second-term Cabinet.

The president has faced questions, including from the Congressional Black Caucus, about a lack of diversity in his first round of nominations after winning re-election.

*Pictured above is Mayor Anthony Fox.