Newman, N.H. Gov. Lynch Support Gregg Decision

J. Bonnie Newman, the New Hampshire Republican nominated to fill Judd Gregg’s seat in the Senate should Gregg have been confirmed as Commerce Secretary, indicated late Thursday she supported Gregg’s decision.

“I spoke with Senator Gregg this afternoon and understand that he has withdrawn as the nominee for Secretary of Commerce,” the would-be Senator said. “I expect Senator Gregg’s decision was not an easy one nor made lightly.”

“For me, it would have been a great honor to serve in the United States Senate, but I will continue in my own, quiet and non-political way to work on behalf of the people of New Hampshire,” Newman added.

New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch (D) said he respected Gregg’s decision, as well as Newman’s willingness to serve.

“I very much respect Senator Gregg’s decision to withdraw and stay in the U.S. Senate,” he said in a statement. “I want to thank Bonnie Newman for her willingness to serve.”