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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

GOP rejects Obama pick for Interior Deputy


WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans have blocked President Barack Obama's pick for the No. 2 job at the Interior Department because of a flap over oil leases in Utah.

In a 57-39 Senate vote, Democrats fell short of the 60 votes they would have needed to advance the nominee past GOP obstacles. It's the first time Republicans have blocked an Obama selection.

David Hayes is an environmental lawyer picked by Obama to serve in Interior's No. 2 spot. Hayes held the same post during the last three years of the Clinton administration.

Sen. Bob Bennett led Republican opposition to Hayes' nomination after Interior Secretary Ken Salazar canceled oil and gas leases in Bennett's home state of Utah.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans are trying to derail President Barack Obama's pick for the No. 2 job at the Interior Department because of a flap over oil leases in Utah.

If they succeed as expected, David Hayes would be the first nominee by the new president to fail on the Senate floor.

A procedural vote was scheduled Wednesday.

Hayes is an environmental lawyer picked by Obama to serve in the No. 2 position at the Interior Department. Hayes held the same post during the last three years of the Clinton administration.

Sen. Bob Bennett has led Republican opposition to Hayes' nomination after Interior Secretary Ken Salazar canceled oil and gas leases in Bennett's home state of Utah.

by the associated press

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