Obama: Bryson is a 'fierce proponent of alternative energy'

President Obama touted the clean energy credentials of his new nominee for Commerce secretary Tuesday.

Obama, in announcing his decision to nominate John Bryson as Commerce secretary, said the businessman's experience as the CEO of a major energy company and as a co-founder of the Natural Resources Defense Council, a leading environmental group, puts him in a prime spot to promote the administration's clean energy goals.

"John understands this better than virtually anybody," Obama said, referring to the administration's energy agenda. "Throughout a distinguished career in which he’s led nonprofits, government agencies, and large companies, he’s been a fierce proponent of alternative energy."

Obama continued:

"As a young man with a degree in hand from a prestigious law school, John didn’t follow his friends to a blue chip law firm. John took a chance on an idea he cared about, and co-founded the Natural Resources Defense Council, which grew into a powerful and important voice in protecting the safety of our air and water."

Here's more on Bryson's experience in the energy and environmental sector.