WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Washington Gov. Gary Locke faced mostly friendly questions at his Senate confirmation hearing Wednesday for his nomination as commerce secretary.
He was introduced by Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell of Washington.
The former two-term Democratic governor must be approved by the full Senate before joining President Barack Obama’s Cabinet. Locke is Obama’s third nominee for the Commerce post.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson withdrew amid questions about the awarding of state contracts. And Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire changed his mind about working for a Democratic president.
If confirmed by the Senate, Locke would assume control of an agency that oversees international trade, oceans policy and the 2010 census.
