Jets' Woody Johnson confirmed as ambassador to United Kingdom

WASHINGTON -- The Senate on Thursday confirmed New York Jets owner Woody Johnson to be the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom.

The votes came as the Senate cleared the deck of dozens of nominees as it recessed for August.

Johnson's younger brother, Christopher Johnson, who is a minority owner, will assume the role of chairman and CEO of the Jets and will oversee the day-to-day operations of the team.

Woody Johnson, 70, will remain the owner but be required to live in the United Kingdom. It is a three-year appointment.

In a statement issued in June, when Woody Johnson was nominated, Christopher Johnson said, "The New York Jets have been an integral part of our family since 2000, but this is a unique opportunity for Woody. His patriotism and commitment to our country have always been a passion of his.

"Over the years, we have learned that ownership of the New York Jets is a special responsibility. Personally, if Woody is nominated and confirmed, I would be honored to oversee the organization, continuing to build a team on and off the field that our fans are proud of and deserve."

Woody Johnson raised money for Trump's presidential campaign and donated $1 million to Trump's inaugural committee. He is chairman and CEO of The Johnson Co., a private asset management firm in New York, and has owned the Jets since 2000.

ESPN's Rich Cimini and The Associated Press contributed to this report.