New Hampshire Sen. Judd Gregg said for the first time Monday that he won’t accept an appointment as secretary of commerce unless he’s replaced by a Republican, confirming days of speculation and dashing Democratic hopes of obtaining a 60-seat majority.
According to Marc Ambinder, Governor John Lynch (D-NH, who would be naming Gregg's replacement has said he will replace Gregg with another Republican.
Lynch's statement:
"We are in the midst of a national economic crisis, and it calls for cooperation on all of our parts. We all need to work together to do what is in the best interest of our country and our state.
"I have had conversations with Senator Gregg, the White House and U.S. Senate leadership. Senator Gregg has said he would not resign his seat in the U.S. Senate if it changed the balance in the Senate. Based on my discussions, it is clear the White House and Senate leadership understand this as well.
"It is important that President Obama be able to select the advisors he feels are necessary to help him address the challenges facing our nation.
"If President Obama does nominate Senator Gregg to serve as Commerce Secretary, I will name a replacement who will put the people of New Hampshire first and represent New Hampshire effectively in the U.S. Senate."
This will guarantee the Republicans have the ability to filibuster any partisan proposals that the Democratically controlled House jams through.
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