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Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter on Saturday appointed the superintendent of public schools in Denver, Michael Bennet, to fill the vacancy that will be created by the appointment of Senator Ken Salazar of Hispanic origin as secretary of the Interior in the government of President-elect Barack Obama .



The action surprised many Republicans and Democrats, who considered a candidate to Bennet with few opportunities because of their lack of legislative experience.


Bennet had been mentioned as a possible secretary of Education in Obama's cabinet, although the president-elect for the post chose to Arne Duncan, chief of the public school system in Chicago.

The postulation of Salazar for the secretariat of the Interior will be considered by the Senate. Two years remaining in his term as senator.


Ritter to Bennet extolled for his leadership and ability to solve problems in both the public and private sectors. Bennet, a Democrat of 44 years, has never content in elections for public office.

"We are at a critical moment in history. The economic challenges facing the United States and Colorado are unprecedented," Ritter said in a written statement. "Our challenges are so serious that will require a new generation of leaders, a new way of thinking, and a bold new approach to solve problems and guide us in this period."


Obama said in a statement that Bennett will be a "breath of fresh air in Washington."

"Michael Bennett reflects perfectly well the qualities of an independent state that decided to serve," said the president-elect.