Despite concerns among some on the left that former Homeland Security chief Janet Napolitano was harsh in her enforcement against illegal immigrants, she was confirmed today as the 20th president of the University of California system.

Some wanted to paint her as a reactionary tool of an Obama administration that isn't as liberal as you think, but Napolitano was a shoo-in all along:

Napolitano was touted as the top candidate after the university searched for a replacement for outgoing honcho Mark G. Yudof.

The 55-year-old will take over the $24 billion-a-year public system, often cited as the world's best, in August, the university announced this afternoon.

The board of regents approved her hiring. As if it wouldn't.

Napolitano:

I am humbled by your support and look forward to working with you to build further on the excellence of UC.

See also: Janet Napolitano to Become Next UC President.

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