Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement on the confirmation of California’s Maria Contreras-Sweet to head the Small Business Administration:

“I have known Maria for many years. She has dedicated her life to helping people and improving the economy of Los Angeles and California. She has an inspiring life story, considerable private sector experience and an outstanding track record of public service—all of which will serve her well at the Small Business Administration.”

“She was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and immigrated to California when she was only five years old. Her mother worked at a chicken packaging plant to support and provide for Maria and her five siblings.

“As founder of ProAmerica Bank, the first Latino-owned business bank in more than 30 years, she knows firsthand what it takes to run and grow a small business. With so many Americans who earn moderate incomes having trouble getting approved for loans, this kind of support is essential to growing job-creating small businesses.

“Maria is uniquely positioned to make a profound impact at the Small Business Administration, which plays such a critical role in helping this country’s entrepreneurs and small businesses—who create the majority of new jobs—thrive and succeed.”

###