Utah Governor Jon Huntsman resigned on Tuesday to become new U.S. ambassador to China.

Huntsman, 49, was sworn in as ambassador to China in Salt Lake City, capital of Utah, shortly after his resignation as governor.

Utah Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert immediately took control of the state although he did not take an oath of office until later on Tuesday.

Huntsman, a moderate Republican, was confirmed as top U.S. diplomat to China by the Senate last Friday. He was appointed by President Barack Obama to the position in May.

Huntsman was elected governor of Utah in 2004 and reelected in 2008. He served as U.S. ambassador to Singapore during the administration of President George Bush and as deputy U.S. trade representative during the administration of President George W. Bush.

Huntsman attended the University of Utah and received a bachelor's degree in business from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania after transferring to that school. He can speak fluent Mandarin Chinese.

His predecessor, Clark Randt, resigned on Jan. 20 when the new administration was sworn in.

Huntsman and his wife, Mary Kaye, have seven children, including a girl adopted from China.

(Xinhua News Agency August 12, 2009)