Just a quick diary, but the NYTimes is reporting Obama will select Judd Gregg as is his commerce secretary.
If he accepts, that means Judd Gregg, a Republican, will have his seat filled by John Lynch, a Democrat.
"Senator Gregg is now the leading candidate for commerce and a pick that could come as early as Monday," a senior administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because a formal announcement has not yet been made.
My first thought when I saw the headline was, holy shit, 60 seats.
And then I read the article.
Mr. Gregg’s selection could also open the door to a significant shift in the balance of power in Congress. There are currently 58 Democrats in the Senate; the number would rise to 59 if Al Franken of Minnesota is seated after the court challenge to his race is completed.
If Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire, a Democrat, replaced Mr. Gregg with a member of his own party, that would put the Democratic majority at 60 — a magic number in the Senate, because 60 is the number of votes needed to control the legislative agenda and block a Republican filibuster.
People who know New Hampshire politics, what sort of pressure will John Lynch be under to appoint a Republican replacement? Will Gregg keep his seat to block a 60 seat majority? Any clues on who might replace Judd Gregg?
Exciting news nonetheless!