Rockefeller: Commerce Nominee 'Gets It'
After several ill fated attempts at selecting the next Commerce secretary, President Barack Obama has found a candidate who understands what is happening on Main Street and has his "finger on the pulse of what direction America must head toward in generations to come," according to Senate Commerce Chairman John (Jay) Rockefeller. In prepared remarks for Wednesday's confirmation hearing for former Washington Democratic Gov. Gary Locke, Rockefeller said the administration has made "the perfect choice" for the job after previous selections -- Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico and Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H. -- withdrew their names from consideration.
"The people deserve to know that the person working with Congress and this committee every day, to determine the best way to reboot this economy, is a person who -- simply put -- gets it," Rockefeller said, noting that Commerce secretary is "one very big job." If confirmed by the Senate, Locke will immediately begin to tackle the national transition to digital television; management of the 2010 Census, the allocation of $4.7 billion in broadband funds; engagement on climate change; and amplification of science and technology to increase U.S. competitiveness and innovation, Rockefeller said.
The expansive influence the Commerce Department -- much like the vast jurisdiction of the Senate Commerce Committee -- is surprising, he noted. "The department is charged with promoting job creation, improving living standards by promoting economic growth, increasing competitiveness, issuing patents and trademarks, and helping to set industrial standards," Rockefeller said. "This is no small job. And there will be challenges." But the chairman feels confident that Locke will ensure U.S. workers can prosper, businesses can thrive, and the economy can grow. "We need to move quickly on this nomination because there is important work to be done and not a moment to waste," he said.
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