(ZENIT News / Rome, 05.31.2024).- Joe Donnelly, the former senator from Indiana, has announced his decision to step down from his role as the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican. This move comes two years after he took on the diplomatic post.
The U.S. Embassy to the Holy See confirmed Donnelly’s departure on the social media platform X on Thursday, May 30, stating that he will officially leave his position on July 8. The announcement did not elaborate on the reasons for his resignation. Donnelly expressed his sentiments in the post, saying, «It has been an honor and a privilege to serve my country in this unique capacity.»
Laura Hochla has been named as the Chargé d’Affaires and will take over the responsibilities in the interim. The Embassy assured that their dedicated team will continue to foster strong cooperation with the Vatican.
Nominated by President Joe Biden in 2021 and confirmed as ambassador in 2022, Donnelly has had a noteworthy career in public service. A Democrat, he served as a representative for South Bend’s district in the U.S. House of Representatives for six years before being elected to the Senate in 2012. His tenure in the Senate ended in 2018 when he lost his re-election bid to Republican Mike Braun.
Donnelly’s decision to return to Indiana marks the end of a significant chapter in his public service career, which has spanned both legislative and diplomatic arenas. His departure raises questions about his future plans and the next steps for U.S. representation at the Vatican.
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