Schumer talks about HRC confirmation

Posted: Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:29 PM by Mark Murray
Filed Under: Congress, State Dept.

From NBC's Lauren Appelbaum
In an interview with NBC's Andrea Mitchell, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D) said he believes the controversy over Hillary Clinton's confirmation will be resolved today.

"Hillary has overwhelming support among Democrats and Republicans," Schumer said at the Capitol before the inauguration. "The most Cornyn could do is delay it two days, and then she gets voted for 97-2, so it doesn't make much sense."

Texas Sen. John Cornyn (R) has raised concerns about foreign donations to Bill Clinton's foundation and possible conflicts of interest that may have for Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State.

"I'm pleased to have the opportunity to have a full and open debate and an up-or-down vote on Senator Clinton's nomination as Secretary of State," Cornyn said in statement released today. "Important questions remain unanswered concerning the Clinton Foundation and its acceptance of donations from foreign entities. Transparency transcends partisan politics and the American people deserve to know more. While I look forward to having this open discussion later this week, today I join my colleagues in celebrating the historic Inauguration of our 44th president. It is a monumental achievement in our nation's history and a cause for pride for all Americans."

Schumer, however, said Cornyn's actions "starts the day off in a mood of partisanship."

"It just is the wrong the way to start this off, and I hope and pray on a wonderful day like today where Barack Obama's reaching out to Democrats and Republicans that Sen. Cornyn steps aside."

Schumer declined to say much about New York Gov. David Paterson's choice for Clinton's replacement, except to repeat that the governor will most likely be announcing his decision this weekend. On possible pressures from the Obama campaign regarding Caroline Kennedy, Schumer said that Patterson has pressure "from all different quarters."

"David Paterson, to his credit, he has a good internal gyroscope," Schumer said. "He makes up his own mind. When I've talked to him about this, he's weighing the pros and cons of all the candidates in a very substantive way. I think people will be happy with the decision, whatever it is."

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Comments

Texas Sen. John Cornyn (R) has raised concerns about foreign donations to Bill Clinton's foundation and possible conflicts of interest that may have for Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State.
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This is not a bash. It's factual. Where were John Cornyn's (R) concerns to Bush Rove and Cheney lies
and industrial complexes in Iraq?

Beverly in Chicago (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:38 PM)

This is not a Bash. It's factual. Texas Sen. John Cornyn (R) is being partisan, obstructionist, and counterproductive

======================================================
Wake up America! (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 1:43 PM)
hypocrasy from beverly in chicago....i didn't see you put aside your "petty bashes" towards Bush and McCain during the elections!!!

Wake up America!:
I haven't bashed your precious lord in the past several posts. It's time to bury the hatchet.

Beverly in Chicago (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:45 PM)

Dissent is patriotic. Senator Cornyn is a patriot. Apparently a lonely one, but nevertheless a patriot. Hillary doesn't deserve a free pass anymore than anyone else.

When Chuckie gets out of bed in the morning the day starts off in a mood of partisanship. When he speaks, it continues and when he goes back to bed he dreams it.

Richard, Washington State (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:46 PM)

"It just is the wrong the way to start this off, and I hope and pray on a wonderful day like today where Barack Obama's reaching out to Democrats and Republicans that Sen. Cornyn steps aside."
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Exactly right, Senator Schumer. Senator Cornyn may want to step back and decide if this is a battle he really wants to fight. The majority of the American people have had it with partisanship that stands in the way of getting our nation back on track.

There will be times when reasonable opposition is appropriate from the Republican minority. This is not one of those times. Cornyn and the rest of the GOP congressfolk need to start doing their part to move America in a better direction. Bratty obstructionism will send their party to the wilderness faster than you can say "you betcha, also"

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:54 PM)

We have got to get past the politics and start working together for the good of this country. We don't have the time to be pointing fingers at one another and this is just another sad case of wasting the publics time on pettiness. We need leaders that set examples of humility,forgiveness and wisdom. There is no wisdom in pushing this agenda, just a waste of energy that could be so useful to bringing this country together.

Paul P OKC, OK (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:55 PM)

Cornyn's timing couldn't have been cheaper. What a way to promote divisiveness. Yes, the donations to the foundation need to be addressed just to ensure the rights and will of the American people are fulfilled without any taint or possibility of taint. But Cornyn's timing blows. He should let us and the world have our celebration today. He can make his comments and concerns known tomorrow.

CdV LA CA (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:59 PM)

Sure, what does it matter if the US SecofState has conflicts of interest between her job and what contributors give to her husbands fund? Best to let that one go and just ignore it. Take Hillary's word that everything is on the up and up.

Glad things have Changed in Washington. We were so concerned when Condi and Colin had the same problems.

Angie S, Galesville, Tx (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:04 PM)

Corny John Cornyn is just trying to make trouble. He thinks he is too big for his cowboy boots "it's a Texas thing." He should just sit down & shut-up.

gepa (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:05 PM)

cornyn wrong approach and attitude is what has to change in the gop. lindsay graham said this today. though he respects cornyn they have bigger issues to deal with and that hillary should be confirmed so that they can move forward. graham said that it is that type of politic that must change within their party.

ace (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:06 PM)

"We have got to get past the politics and start working together for the good of this country."

Would a one-party system suit you? That way, no one would be critical of anyone else. Kind of like what they have in Cuba.

Fran Williams, NC (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:07 PM)

One Party. One Leader. One Rule. Everyone else shut up.

Obama Rules (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:10 PM)

The very first post in this section, Beverly bashes Bush. The very second post she says she doesn't bash Bush and we need to bury the hatchett. Typical dem speaking out of both sides of the mouth and living a double standard.

Too Funny (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:14 PM)

Does Schumer ever shut his yap? There are about ten Senators that you don't want get between them and a camera. Schumer is probably the worst. Partisan hack doesn't even start to describe Schumer. The Senate would be a better place without him. Maybe Obama will appoint him to be Ambassador of East Ivory Coast or something.

Tired of this guy (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:14 PM)

I hear that Nancy Pelosi wants to set up an investigation of former President Bush to determine if he perpetrated any crimes that he could be tried for.
Way to go Nancy.
You are really helping the cause to get off to a fresh new start.
Partisanship and hatred are alive and well in DC.
I wish the people on the hill would just stand on the steps of the Capitol for a group photo while they give the public the middle finger.
That way we would know for sure that all they care about is personal power, greed, and hatred.

DEZ, Delray Beach (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:15 PM)

Hillary Clinton and her significant other are both very expensive major security risk, this is beside the point that she is not qualified as Sect. of State and couldn't put a screw in the White House out house.

This elite club stuff on the Hill has got to go, Bail Out Bimbo's cost us way to much to keep them around.

ONTIME (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:17 PM)

Working together to solve this country's problems does not mean that there will be no disagreements or dissent. What it does mean is that people discuss the issues at hand with some intelligence and respect for each other and not for the purpose of making political points. The Dems need not dolt on winning the Whitehouse or having a majority in Congrees and to sincerely seek ideas and opinions from across the isle. Republicans need not baulk or intentionally stall on policy proposals or other issues just to make political points in order to regain the Whitehouse or a majority in Congress. The moment that both sides can learn to place what is best for this country above what is best for their personal political futures, or that of their party, is the moment we will be much better off.

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:18 PM)

"Would a one-party system suit you? That way, no one would be critical of anyone else. Kind of like what they have in Cuba."

--------------

You mean like the military junta we've had over the past 8 years?

Thank God it's over! (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:28 PM)

it is good to have a two party system. it wouldn't hurt if our political laws would change enough that a third party could be formed to create balance of power in washington.

what we don't need is the political fighting and gridlock of the past. it is good to contend issues of true importance. hillary's nomination isn't one of them. her husband has consented to full disclosure at the end of each year of all contributions to his foundation.

cornyn is playing partisan politics when this country needs to be getting things done. our situation doesn't need delay just because he wants to cat fight or show what he can do that has a negative impact upon the dem's because he is a repub.

that type of political gaming is part of the reason congress hasn't gotten a lot done in the last 8 years. ENOUGH!!

ace (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:30 PM)

"It just is the wrong the way to start this off,..."

I'll have to remember that line. Schumer is one of the worst partisan pricks in D.C.

Spuds MacKenzie (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:33 PM)

There's a difference between dissent and trying to score partisan points. Nothing I've ever seen of Cornyn would cause me do believe this is a matter of true principle to him. Likewise Vitter, who has little room to talk about principles on any issue.

Joe Don, Topeka, KS (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:35 PM)

I don't have a problem with people wanting to make sure there's no conflict with Hillary. I DO have a problem with the hypocrisy of it. That is, unless Coryn was equally vigilent in resolving the myriad conflicts of the Republicans (e.g., Cheney and Haliburton). ... (Had to stop typing there for a moment due to fits of laughter.)

Len Shaffer, Emeryville, CA (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:35 PM)

Wait a minute..
This isn't just politics or divisivness. The Clinton's have excepted millions and millions of dollars from oversea sources.
Now she is being interviewed for the post of Secretary of State.
This is something that must be looked into.
You can't brush it off just because she is part of the majority.
It our represenitives duty to look at everything that will impact her ability to do the job.
You can't sweep millions of dollars under the rug and say "it don't matter".
And as for timing, when else??? This is her confimation hearing! Now is the only time.

Last 2 words: Norman Shue

What's a few million dollars here and there... (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:38 PM)

It's about time that President Clinton explained the details of the finances he received from foreign sources. The amount of money he received is not given without expectation of somthing in return.

Jim Daytona Beach FL (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:42 PM)

The dishonesty of Schumer and a lot of Democrats simply amazes me. They have shown nothing but partianship ever since day 1 of Bush's presidency and now they have the nerve to even mention the word. They have faught George Bush's every move for 8 years and now they expect republicans to role over and play dead. Senator Schumer , you sir are a scumbag in the truest sense of the word.

Bill Griffith , corapeake NC. (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:44 PM)

he need to talk to another texas guy george bush have a long star beer and chill

carlos mcclendon,Yonkers,ny (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:45 PM)

The question is why did he wait until now to voice his dissent. This should have been addressed before now. This goes to show that people still are not getting the message that America has to rebuild or we become nothing. It is ok to disagree but do it with honor and respect. We are tired of the previous administration way of doing business, we are tired of the bickering, we are tired of our government not working. The view from the capitol should speak volumes to our elected officials. It is over.

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:53 PM)

The confirmation of the SOS is one of critical importance. If Cornym had any ability to actually forestall this confirmation, then it would make sense to delay the confirmation. This is just Cornym showing the U.S. that he has not learned one thing from the recent elections. We're done with this nonsense and we want to move on. Right now is when we need our SOS to be on board and on the move. Our SOS will have a big job with the Israel/ Gaza conflict and picking up the pieces left from the Bush administration. I think the level of scrutiny that the Clintons have agreed to in unprecedented and Cornym and the Republicans are just being absurd in their demands. The Clinton Foundation is doing such tremendous work around the world and no one is donating to that Foundation to influence our government.

MaryanneAZ, Phoenix, AZ (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:56 PM)

Are we seeing the start of things. The inauguration oath and speech, the limo pulling away and the lift off of the helicopter all were reassuring and inspiring moments. Change is here, a new course has started, today allows hope for tomorrow and then bold deception and arrogant self-indulgence can now be replaced with sincere openness and honest conscientious efforts towards regaining America’s responsible position in the world and having real concern for its people at home. Barack Obama has given the American people reason for renewed hope and while he can not be all things to all people and guarantee everyone all they want, he does honestly identify the problems and then responsibly address them for a very refreshing change. He has been idolized by some and that scares Republicans who yet may see it as an opportunity to withhold any sincere cooperation, put obstacles in his way and then point to his resulting difficulty. Obama has correctly challenged all Americans to be part of the turn around, indicating that cooperation is really the only way, and one way the voters can be productive is to hold their representatives, all of them, to honestly and responsibly be reasonably cooperative in this country’s best interests. For their recent downfall the Republicans only have themselves to blame as they were caught stubbornly and selfishly totally backing the Bush-Cheney administration who were focused on benefiting Special Interests and a select few while giving the average American only apathy, the costs and an abundance of subterfuge. Now we desperately need all representatives, Republicans, Democrats and Independents, to be sincere in a cooperative effort to solve the problems. Any political gamesmanship would be just demonstrating more obnoxious and self-focused irresponsibility and should reflect negatively on any who indulge.

REG in AZ (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:59 PM)

People seemingly think that Bill Clinton depends on what he can skim off donations made to help the sick and poor to make a living. If some of you would take the time to investigate the actions of Clinton's foundation and the real good work they do you might learn just how absurd Cornyn's concern is.

Certainly, all candidates for appointed office should be thouroughly vetted but just as certainly, there is a time when the vetting process is complete and it is time to move on.

Unfortunately, Sen. Cornyn and many like him will never accept that Hillary Clinton is acceptable for this office so they will constantly obstruct the process in the name of Patriotism.

New Indi (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 3:59 PM)

"You can't sweep millions of dollars under the rug and say 'it don't matter'."

You're right. I will therefore be expecting a full accounting in the near future of the billions upon billions of dollars that have been wasted due to private, no-bid contracts in Iraq. And I will expect Blackwater and its ilk to be held fully "accountable."

"They have faught George Bush's every move for 8 years ..."

You ARE kidding, right? Are you talking about the same Democrats who have rolled over and played dead for virtually everything GW has done, whether it be warrentless wiretapping, continuing to fund the war, the Patriot act, etc., etc., etc.? No, you couldn't be talking about THOSE Democrats.

Len Shaffer, Emeryville, CA (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4:03 PM)

This has been resolved - Cornyn is an idiot who is trying to grandstand for his party. But just like most Texas Republicans of late, he sucks at his job.

Chibeardan, Batavia, IL (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4:18 PM)

Terry, Disabled Vet:

Terry, Senator Cornyn is on the committee that passes on the recommendation to the Senate. As part of that committee he has cast a dissenting vote which will require a roll call vote. He has done it at the right time and in the right place and in proper order, thought it will be mostly symbolic.

Now they will have formal debate, but probably it will be mild and quick and will lead to the strong vote for confirmation that Chuckie predicts. But there is enough to justify not giving Hillary Clinton a unanimous vote.

Mr. Cornyn is expressing disagreement with honor and respect, unlike the "nah nah nah nah, hey, hey, goodbye" group of detritus that Anna Molly found so humorous earlier today.

Richard, Washington State (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4:19 PM)

Dissent and difference of opinion are what a democracy thrives on. Mr. Cronyn may be dead wrong and in a minority but he has the right to be dead wrong and in a minority. Not everyone will agree on every issue ever and so it stands to reason there will be someone who won't agree with the rest about HRC and her appointment. In the end HRC will prevail and we will move on to other things.

eagle1776 (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4:20 PM)

getting her out of NY is a good thing if only Chuckie could be nominated for something but alas he has no talents

joeplumber (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:02 PM)

CDV, It had to be today. They are giving blanket approvel to most of Obamas selections today. Asking for debate is not being obstructionist, thats all he is doing is asking questions. I for one would at least like Hillary to answer the question. Although I think the GOP should just set back and give Obama everything he asks for, (with the exception of National Defense) Let the Dems take complete control and responsibility for every thing else. So there is no doubt which way is best. The American people have made a choice.

Greg Okc (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:19 PM)

Mr. Cornyn is just trying to look important. onthing more

lulu San Jose CA (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:21 PM)

i think Hillary would make a great secretart of state and people should Back Off! there alot of worse people out the they should be Bashing. Come now leave Hillary alone and let her take her job that President Obama recommended for her. He's a smart man and he wouldnt pick just anyone for that job! Whether people like it or not she WILL be the Sec Of State!

elizabeth flores, greenville,south carolina (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:23 PM)

As a Texan, I made my thoughts known to Cornyn. I find his petty act those that represent the "childish" acts that President Obama spoke of in his speech today. If in fact, Cornyn believed that Clinton could not serve in this post, state that fact. But he doesn't. He knows that not only will her nomination be affirmed, but he knows she will make an able SOS. It is not that his concern hasn't already been shared, during the committee hearings, even by his own questioning. But this act WAS a partisan act. It was done because he could, not because it had meaning. Shame on Cornyn. The ground is falling beneath your feet, Senator, for the days of pettiness are over.

Debra Austin, Texas (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:31 PM)

Where were Cornyns concerns when the leaders of the oil industry and lobbyists were writing the nations energy policy.

What a clown.

Jilli, Houston, TX (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:40 PM)

Its so funny to see Republicans whining about "accountability". Gonzales anyone? Rumsfeld? Cheney's Im perial Vice Presidency? Katrina? The lies about WMD? Abu Gharib? Where were your concerns about accountability then?

Cal (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 5:45 PM)

Cornyn asking for "accountability"...don't make me laugh with his self rightess BS. This is nothing more than the same old GOP nastiness that the American public said ENOUGH. He needs to be careful of what he asks for because because if he wants to drag up the past it will certainly lead to investigations of Bush, Chaney, Haliburton, Gonzales....oh that's right, they're from Texas so ain't no flies on them.

fedup, MD (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 7:59 PM)

as soon as they find out that hillary and chuckie are having an affair then all will be well in the usa follow the leader.my only real concern ofnew pres. is his attack on leagal gun owners, when only 10-15% cause all the problems in guns and drugs leave the majority alone focus on the few can't we take care of that with our people rather than stir up the 144 million guns owners.quite handcuffing the law people and let them do their job.

jr.,wichita ks (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 10:10 PM)

If there is a chance that Hillary will not get the position, I am ecstatic. Come on. That whole thing with Clinton is still fresh in our minds plus the rumors about her. I wish those two would go back to arkansas. My issue here is the bad bad stuff they said about each other(Obama/Hillary) on the trail it just can't be "Oh, I basically called you a liar and laughed at you, and criticized your ideas, but sure, I will be your Sec State. What better way to seal my fate of never becoming the President." Can she really ever respect him enough to report to him? "Yes sir, Mr Obama, I am right on that...." Good grief charlie Brown!

Wendy, Austin (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 10:35 PM)

I think Senator Cornyn had better wake up and smell the coffee. If he thinks this little attempt at trying to flex a little political muscle is going to get him anywhere, he's sadly mistaken. This could come back to bite him in the keister if he's not careful. He's only delaying the inevitable. Hillary has a lot of support on both sides of the floor. Go Hillary!

John, Vancouver, B.C. (Sent Tuesday, January 20, 2009 11:06 PM)

Sen. Cornyn says, he wants a full debate on the Clinton's conflict of interest. What more does he want to know, that is worthy of any discussion? Since, he has little concern for real issues, like the job loss or the economy in the tank, maybe he should go hang out with Rove, Cheney, et al and discuss how he can best keep his job. Texans need to give this guy the boot.

Rich, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 1:41 AM)

Did everyone forget that these donations have gone to fight AIDS, and have not lined the pockets of the Clintons. Yes, the speaking fees lined their pockets, but not the $1 billion plus that has helped treat AIDS. Giving to a charity is now viewed as having some alternative outcomes, other than just giving. I guess that is the Bush Cheney Republican way, you give when you are really wanting something else.

Rich, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 1:48 AM)

I am a Republican and find Sen. Cornyns interruption of the confirmation of HRC another example of self serving 'look at me' politics. I am no Hillary fan by any stretch of the imagination, but I am less a fan of any representative of this congress that plays this divisive game to get on TV. Go on MTV's the Real World if your want to look like an ass on TV.

But don't worry Dems, Nancy Pelosi is the next idiot to grandstand over the stimulus package, check your local listings for that nightmare.

Unfortunately, throwing baby out with the bath water is the only way here. All these jokers were on watch for the financial collapse, Rep and Dem. They all need to go in the next elections. I encourage all patriotic Americans, irrespective of your party leanings to vote in new representatives in your primaries in the next election.

Also, get Hillary's confirmation over with and move on. Give the new administration their proper chance for a change.

Bill Adams, Philadelphia, PA (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 8:15 AM)

Richard, Washington State, What I was stating is still true, the man did it in a fashion that was not honorable. How long has she been recommended for this position? How long Sir? The problem with this is that he waited until now to voice his opposition and why now? As for the nah nah, thing, respect sir is a TWO WAY STREET and the former dunce in chief did not respect the people of this country nor did he REPSECT THE TROOPS IN HARMS WAY (Bring it on comment)sir. No respect for a man who never showed any respect!

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 8:37 AM)

When is schumer up for reeelection, old regime time to go....Loves the cameras and publicity but as far as im concerened just a glorified Senator. Hope hes part of change...

Russell Fox Wells, Me (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 9:03 AM)

SCHUMER IS HANGING ONTO HILLARY'S COAT-TAILS FOR DEAR LIFE! He is afraid that Senator Caroline will get more media attention and camera time then he does.

SCHUMER IS HANGING ONTO HILLARY'S COAT-TAILS .... (Sent Wednesday, January 21, 2009 9:11 AM)

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