AP: Lynch Hints Gregg Successor Will Be A GOPer
Per the AP, NH Gov. John Lynch "hinted" today that "he will pave the way for Sen. Judd Gregg's appointment as U.S. Commerce secretary by not replacing Gregg in the Senate with a Democrat."
In a statement, Lynch - who is a Democrat - "said the national economic crisis demands that everyone cooperate to do what's best for the country."
Gregg has said he would not leave the Senate if his exit would change the balance of power. If Democrat Al Franken wins in MN, and if Gregg were to be appointed to Commerce and Lynch replaced him with a Democrat, the Dems would hit the 60-vote filibuster proof majority.
Here's Lynch:
"Based on my discussions, it is clear the White House and Senate leadership understand this as well," Lynch said in a four-paragraph statement."It is important that President Obama be able to select the advisers he feels are necessary to help him address the challenges facing our nation.
"I will name a replacement who will put the people of New Hampshire first and represent New Hampshire effectively in the U.S. Senate."