A diplomat since 1994, Kritenbrink served as senior director for Asian affairs for President Barack Obama’s National Security Council. Before that, he was deputy chief of mission in Beijing.
Kritenbrink grew up outside Ashland and developed his interest in world affairs while studying political science at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
In a press release, Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., thanked Kritenbrink for his commitment to public service.

“The United States needs an ambassador in Vietnam who will work to ensure our trade agreements and lead our diplomatic conversations,” Sasse said.
“Dan Kritenbrink can do both of those. Nebraskans should be thrilled that the administration selected one of our own to represent our country.”
After Kritenbrink received a master’s degree from the University of Virginia, he started on a doctorate — but dropped that plan the moment he passed the State Department’s Foreign Service examination.
Dicussing with Hanoitimes, Major General Le Van Cuong – former Head of Strategic Institute (Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam) said, with deep knowledge of Vietnam’s East Sea issue, Daniel Kritenbrink becoming American Ambassador would foster the bilateral tie of Hanoi and Washington.
Daniel particularly expressed obviously the attitude consistent with former US President Barack Obama government about Vietnam’s East Sea issue, which is to deal with sea dispute with peaceful measure, comply to international law, back bilateral dialogue, ensure air and navigation security and safety.
“Once working deputy chief of mission to China, Daniel Kritenbrink also understand Asia history, culture, especially in sea dispute issue. His deep knowledge of the Asia and diplomatic experience in the region will be a key to Kritenbrink's effectiveness in Hanoi.”, Le Van Cuong told Hanoitimes.