(Washington, D.C.)—Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship Ranking Member Ben Cardin (D-Md.) today issued a statement after the committee voted 17-2 to approve Jovita Carranza’s nomination to serve as the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):

“At a time when the face of business ownership in America is becoming more diverse, SBA needs strong leadership and innovative thinking to help entrepreneurs from underserved communities as they overcome pervasive, historical barriers. During last week’s nomination hearing, Treasurer Carranza expressed her commitment to supporting underserved communities and advocating for small businesses within the administration. I look forward to working with Treasurer Carranza to empower America’s entrepreneurs so they can build successful businesses and create jobs.”