Senator Judd Gregg Withdraws Nomination as Commerce Secretary

It has become apparent during this process that this will not work for me as I have found that on issues such as the stimulus package and the Census there are irresolvable conflicts for me.

WASHINGTON (Catholic Online) On February 3, 2009, President Barack Obama stood behind Republican Senator Judd Gregg, his then nominee for the important post of the Secretary of Commerce.

The president,only weeks ago, had to face the aftershock when his first choice, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, withdrew his nomination.

Thursday, February 12, 2009, Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire did the same. "We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy," the Senator told the Press.

The Senator referred to "irresolvable conflicts" between his views on the economic stimulus and the Administrations decision to relocate responsibility for the 2010 census.
The administration was certainly caught off guard by his action. The President referred to the withdrawal as "something of a surprise."

The White House Press could only say that it regretted the Sen. Judd Gregg's "change of heart" and indicated there were "irresolvable conflicts".

No doubt, this story will be parsed and more will be forthcoming. The following Press Release was issued by the Office of Senator Gregg:

Senator Gregg Statement on His Withdrawal for Consideration of U.S. Commerce Secretary

"I want to thank the President for nominating me to serve in his Cabinet as Secretary of Commerce. This was a great honor, and I had felt that I could bring some views and ideas that would assist him in governing during this difficult time. I especially admire his willingness to reach across the aisle.

"However, it has become apparent during this process that this will not work for me as I have found that on issues such as the stimulus package and the Census there are irresolvable conflicts for me. Prior to accepting this post, we had discussed these and other potential differences, but unfortunately we did not adequately focus on these concerns. We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy.

"Obviously the President requires a team that is fully supportive of all his initiatives.

"I greatly admire President Obama and know our country will benefit from his leadership, but at this time I must withdraw my name from consideration for this position.

"As we move forward, I expect there will be many issues and initiatives where I can and will work to assure the success of the President's proposals. This will certainly be a goal of mine.

"Kathy and I also want to specifically thank Governor Lynch and Bonnie Newman for their friendship and assistance during this period. In addition we wish to thank all the people, especially in New Hampshire, who have been so kind and generous in their supportive comments.

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"As a further matter of clarification, nothing about the vetting process played any role in this decision. I will continue to represent the people of New Hampshire in the United States Senate."

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