If the rumors are true, President Obama is not yet done purloining the ranks of the United States Senate for his cabinet. This time, though, he is considering a New England Republican (there are still, astonishingly, a few left post-Rove). From CQPolitics:
"All eyes in the Senate were on Republican Judd Gregg of New Hampshire Thursday amid speculation that President Obama is seriously considering him as his Commerce secretary.
For his part, Gregg refused to comment on reports that he is a finalist. Obama had earlier tapped Democratic New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson for the position, but he withdrew in December amid a federal corruption probe.
"'I really don’t have any comment on that at all,' Gregg said. Later he added, 'I can’t comment at all on this.'
"If Obama were to nominate Gregg, it could have significant implications for the Senate. Under New Hampshire law, Democratic Gov. John Lynch would appoint a replacement who would serve until Gregg’s term expires in 2010. If Democrats also win an undecided Senate race in Minnesota, that would give them 60 seats, enough to choke off debate with a unified caucus. Republicans bristled at that possibility and suggested Gregg might face pressure to turn down the job if offered."
More here.
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