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Hillary Is Sworn In After Senate Vote

By John Johnson,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 21, 2009 5:24 PM CST

(Newser) – It took a little longer than expected, but Hillary Clinton is the new secretary of state, the New York Times reports. Clinton was sworn in this evening in a private ceremony about an hour after the Senate voted 94-2 to confirm her nomination. The vote came after Sen. John Cornyn dropped his bid to slow down the confirmation because of conflict-of-interest concerns over Bill Clinton's charitable foundation.


The two "no" votes came from GOP Sens. Jim DeMint of South Carolina and David Vitter of Louisiana. Clinton got a boost today when John McCain called for a quick vote, given the nation's pressing global problems. Meanwhile, a Senate panel decided to delay its vote on attorney general nominee Eric Holder because Republicans say they need more time to question him.

Former President Clinton and his wife, Secretary of State nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton before the inaugural prayer service this morning.
Former President Clinton and his wife, Secretary of State nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton before the inaugural prayer service this morning.   (AP Photo)
Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton waves during a luncheon for the political action committee Emily's List, Jan. 18, 2009, in Washington.
Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton waves during a luncheon for the political action committee Emily's List, Jan. 18, 2009, in Washington.   (AP Photo)
Secretary of State-designate Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-NY, listens to a question as she testifies on Capitol Hill, Jan. 13, 2009.
Secretary of State-designate Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-NY, listens to a question as she testifies on Capitol Hill, Jan. 13, 2009.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 3 comments
Newser001
Jan 21, 2009 9:13 PM CST
Yet on the other hand, I think she'll do an outstanding job. She's smart, ballsy, and proactive, and WILL do what is needed, based on what the White House calls for. I think Rice was dissed by GW, when he told her to shut-up regarding the UN Security Counsel, reference to Israel's actions on Gaza. Israel has a right to defend itself, but went too far - Although, clearly got their point across. No Hamas, I will not recognize you, as your sole existence is to obliterate Israel…
Newser001
Jan 21, 2009 9:04 PM CST
I'll agree with you on skeletons in the closet, King... Funny how people's past(s) in politics, doesn't seem to really matter anymore... This can only be read by the general populous and the world at large, in a very poor manner...
Caps
Jan 21, 2009 4:20 AM CST
Good for her. What was Vitters problem? Was it because she was not a call girl? Jim DeMint what was his problem?????

Here's what's behind the 'no' votes
Washington Post

McCain helps out: 'We shouldn't delay'
The Hill

Holder's confirmation is delayed
Politico

Geithner apologizes, is expected to win easy confirmation
Wall Street Journal

 
Hillary Clinton • Senate • secretary of State • John Cornyn • Obama administration • Obama Cabinet

 
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