WASHINGTON - Senator John F. Kerry (D-Mass.), Chairman of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, today announced the confirmation of Thomas Sullivan as Chief Counsel of the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy. The full Senate vote follows a unanimous committee action to move the nomination to the floor.

"I am confident that Thomas Sullivan will be a true voice on behalf of America's small businesses. He faces the difficult job of maintaining an independent voice for small businesses while working with the Administration and Congress to reinvigorate small business who have been devastated in recent months. During these tumultuous times, Sullivan's extensive small business background will be an asset to the agency and I very much look forward to working with him."

The Office of Advocacy serves as an independent voice within the federal government for small business. It encourages policies that support the development and growth of America's small business and works to reduce the burdens that federal policies impose on small businesses.

A Wellesley, Massachusetts native, Thomas Sullivan is expected to be sworn in soon.

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