EVERETT, WA – Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), the lead Democrat on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, released the below statement in response to news that The Boeing Company’s Board of Directors has elected Robert K. "Kelly" Ortberg as the company’s new President and Chief Executive Officer:

“I am encouraged about the announcement of Kelly Ortberg as the new President and CEO of The Boeing Company. Mr. Ortberg is a mechanical engineer. I hope that means he will ensure that his top message for everyone is building the best airplane means building the safest airplane in the world.

“But Mr. Ortberg has his work cut out for him.

“First, he has to ensure a continued commitment to the safety and quality plan that is Boeing’s pathway to earning the trust and confidence of the traveling public.

“Second, he needs to listen to the women and men of the Machinists Union in the current labor negotiations to ensure they are compensated for their work and treated well for carrying much of the burden for the company over the last several years.

“Finally, Boeing needs to complete the acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, bringing back a key part of its supply chain into the company.

“I look forward to meeting Mr. Ortberg soon, but that is not as important as focusing on Boeing returning to the top of its game.”

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