President Barack Obama recently indicated he intends to nominate Chopra to his cabinet.

In a statement, CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro said, “CEA commends President Obama for the selection of Aneesh Chopra as the nation’s first Chief Technology Officer. Chopra is an excellent selection as he served proficiently in Virginia as Secretary of Technology and also has a strong background in the private sector advising the health care industry on technology management issues. He will bring to the position real world technology and public policy experience.

“The creation of the CTO position – and the excellent appointment of Chopra – demonstrate the high priority the Obama administration places on the technology industry. CEA views this position as critical as it allows one individual responsibility across government agencies on key technology issues. It also ensures our industry a strong voice at the Cabinet level as issues of intellectual property, immigration, trade and taxes are discussed.”