CNN Political Ticker
February 12th, 2009
06:08 PM ET
1095 days ago

Gregg 'probably' won't seek re-election in 2010

mug.hamby
Gregg said he will leave the Senate after three terms.
Gregg said he will leave the Senate after three terms.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Judd Gregg made clear Thursday he would rather serve in the Senate than in the Obama administration, but the New Hampshire Republican said he “probably” will not seek a fourth term next year.

“Will I run? Probably not,” Gregg said at a press conference after withdrawing from the Commerce post. Gregg also told the New Hampshire Union-Leader earlier in the day that he does not intend to seek re-election.

If that’s true, it likely comes as good news to New Hampshire Rep. Paul Hodes, the Democratic congressman who emerged as a frontrunner for the seat after Gregg first decided to take the Commerce job. Hodes announced his intention to run for the Senate seat last week.

But if Gregg has a change of heart and decides to run again in 2010, Hodes has a tougher road ahead. According to an American Research Group poll released in late December, Gregg held a 47-40 lead in a hypothetical match-up with the congressman.

Even before Gregg said Thursday he won’t run again - but after he turned down the president - Hodes made it clear he still wants the seat.

“I will be a candidate for the United State Senate in 2010,” Hodes said in a statement Thursday afternoon. “I look forward to working every day to stand up for New Hampshire as we come together to confront the economic crisis facing our nation.”

Hodes would still need to secure the Democratic nomination, and may face a primary challenge from Rep. Carol Shea-Porter, who is mulling her own bid.


Filed under: Judd Gregg • Paul Hodes
soundoff (152 Responses)
  1. Former Republican Voter

    Good.

    Now, let's see if that holds or if he has a 'sudden change of mind'....

    February 12, 2009 06:09 pm at 6:09 pm |
  2. jakes

    He's a rich moron who cares nothing about the people...

    February 12, 2009 06:10 pm at 6:10 pm |
  3. Arkansas Undertaker

    I smell a dead cat on the line!!!! He is hiding something and it is going to come out sooner of later!

    February 12, 2009 06:10 pm at 6:10 pm |
  4. Faith Restored

    Why would he when he just spit on his contiuents? This isn't just about whether or not the stimulus works...the point of the matter is that something had to be done quickly because Gregg and his GOP buddies lined their pockets (and probably some Dems too) while Delusional George ran the fiscal warmongering train off the tracks and down the embankment. Clearly none of the GOP want to fix anything. They want it to fall into a heap of catastrophe and believe themselves the rescuers of our soon to be 3rd world status in a few years. Sick puppies aren't they?

    February 12, 2009 06:12 pm at 6:12 pm |
  5. Deb

    After this stunt he knows he won't win... I'm sure his jobs is to now and try to make the President fail but if God is for you it doesn't matter who is against you

    February 12, 2009 06:14 pm at 6:14 pm |
  6. Lush Limprick, the real head of the RNC

    Ok, first he retracts his name from consideration and now states he will not run for re-election to the Senate(YAY)?

    Looks like President Obama's vetting team either did find or was close to finding some smelly and dirty old laundry.

    One the other hand he may have had enough time to line his pockets with our money and wants out before he is discovered, afterall, he is a repub.

    February 12, 2009 06:15 pm at 6:15 pm |
  7. Obama 2.0

    Gregg, I am sorry, you could have really helped this country get past the partisan crap, instead you are a quiter. The same lack of testicular fortitude that seams to be running rampant in your party, with the exception of an old man & two women. You guys, really should burn those party hats, they are keeping the oxegen from getting to the thinking parts of the brain. both parties for that matter. you have the left wing Pelosi's on one hand and the Right wing bainers on the other, the American people deserve better than that.

    February 12, 2009 06:16 pm at 6:16 pm |
  8. Bud

    Yeah, we have another Senator that will "retire" with more money, benefits and corporate job opportunities than you could shake a stick at. In addition he probably was influenced by the new lobbiest restrictions that might have limited his future plans. This was never a "Mr. Smith Goes To Washington" moment.

    February 12, 2009 06:16 pm at 6:16 pm |
  9. Capt Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah

    Good!

    February 12, 2009 06:17 pm at 6:17 pm |
  10. Jon in CA

    By removing yourself from being the Commerce Secretary under an Obama administration, Senator, your popularity in NH spiked 10 points!

    February 12, 2009 06:18 pm at 6:18 pm |
  11. natasha in tally

    I really think that this was the repub last hope at screwing with the numbers and the Obama admin knew it. They offered the congressman the job with the full knowledge of his party affiliation and what that means when it comes to minorites and having an accurate census. Smart moving by asking for the report as well. There will be no love lost here in light of this new development.

    February 12, 2009 06:18 pm at 6:18 pm |
  12. MADSALL

    President Obama doesn't know just how blessed he is not to have this spineless person in his cabinet. This administration needs Real Men, not wimps. He knew what he was getting into, but he didn't stop to realize that the ever infamous Republican CULT would not allow this.

    February 12, 2009 06:19 pm at 6:19 pm |
  13. Josh Maloney, Oakland, CA

    This is just further evidence that most of the Republicans in Congress are poor losers. I commend the three Senate Republicans for supporting the stimulus. They had valid points of clean up in the original bill. Unfortunately their cohorts don't get it.

    February 12, 2009 06:19 pm at 6:19 pm |
  14. March on Limbaughs Castle

    Scumbag Gregg,we wont forget either.They blackmailed him.

    February 12, 2009 06:20 pm at 6:20 pm |
  15. Carolyn Greene

    Well the Republicans are at it again. Anything to stop progress. I wish they(republicans) would grow up.

    February 12, 2009 06:21 pm at 6:21 pm |
  16. Beverly, NYC

    Probably lying about that too. Loser!!!!

    February 12, 2009 06:21 pm at 6:21 pm |
  17. jakes

    So it is not about me it is about their election? God forbid us!!

    February 12, 2009 06:23 pm at 6:23 pm |
  18. I agree with what I just read

    some bomb must be about to explode about Gregg's character

    February 12, 2009 06:25 pm at 6:25 pm |
  19. arithmetic is liberal

    Don't worry, he'll probably yellow stripe it on this one too...

    February 12, 2009 06:25 pm at 6:25 pm |
  20. Dan

    But, he did pay taxes, which may separate him for the other choices!

    February 12, 2009 06:26 pm at 6:26 pm |
  21. Alicia

    WHY ARE SO MANY REPUBLICANS NOT WEARING FLAG PINS ON THEIR LAPELS NOW? PROTESTING THE OBAMA PRESIDENCY?

    February 12, 2009 06:27 pm at 6:27 pm |
  22. chuck

    THANK GOD!!!!!!! HAVE YOU SEEN A SMILING REPUBLICAN LATELY? THEY ARE WALKING AROUND LIKE THE TERRORISTS ,READY TO STRIKE AT ANY TIME.

    February 12, 2009 06:28 pm at 6:28 pm |
  23. Daniel, Atlanta,GA

    The more the GOP acts like this, the more the American people see how foolish they really are. The GOP is no longer the party of the people...oops, it never was!

    February 12, 2009 06:29 pm at 6:29 pm |
  24. ijoe

    because you will lose !! makes the gop strong arm you!! party before country !!

    February 12, 2009 06:29 pm at 6:29 pm |
  25. Canada

    Again Repub secretes found,Can't continue and won't context 2010.

    February 12, 2009 06:29 pm at 6:29 pm |
  26. mark from NY

    you better not to.

    February 12, 2009 06:35 pm at 6:35 pm |
  27. Ajax

    Smart move by Gregg.

    No sense in being a part of the wasteful stimulus bill championed by the WH. Nor is there in sense in letting the President take over the Census. Things are obviously being run the "Chicago way" in DC right now. As someone who grew up watching Cook County / Chicago politics all I can say is: told you so.

    February 12, 2009 06:35 pm at 6:35 pm |
  28. mary

    WASHINGTON (CNN) — A Democratic source close to the Obama White House said Thursday that Judd Gregg "campaigned for the job" — that the New Hampshire senator had asked Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to approach the president about the Commerce post.

    Gregg "sat with [Obama], said he wanted the job, knew his policies and erratically dropped out without warning," said the source, minutes after the Republican senator announced his withdrawal from consideration.

    UPDATE: A Democratic source confirms to CNN that Harry Reid approached White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel about Gregg for Commerce Secretary.

    February 12, 2009 06:37 pm at 6:37 pm |
  29. Tom Insko

    A conservative in a far left administration is obviously "not a good fit." Is it too late for Geithner to quit and open the job for someone who has a clue like Governor Corzine? At least Obama has accomplished making Carter look good. May God save the Republic from this inept, inexperienced band of Chicago back-benchers.

    February 12, 2009 06:39 pm at 6:39 pm |
  30. Isaac

    Ha! He doesn't want to run again, because he knows he's going to lose! I should know, I live in NH! Republicans are finished in this state!

    February 12, 2009 06:39 pm at 6:39 pm |
  31. concernedinTexas

    I wonder what the RNC had on this guy? After being all smushy with the President, NOW he want's to get out...reminds me of a scam pulled by the RNC.

    February 12, 2009 06:41 pm at 6:41 pm |
  32. David, Vancouver, WA

    I'm glad the REAL Judd Gregg has emerged. The real Gregg turns an honor into a political backstabbing game. Just like a cut-and-run and do-nothing Republican. Good riddance!

    February 12, 2009 06:42 pm at 6:42 pm |
  33. Cynthia - Arkansas

    He's scared of Rush and the other hit squad, I mean Republicans. They have already threatened anyone who supports the stimulus plan. They would tear you to shreds if you actually took a cabinet seat.

    February 12, 2009 06:44 pm at 6:44 pm |
  34. Pierre Podo

    That was the right thing to do. He felt his Republican friends in Senate, did not appreciate his appointment to the Post of Commerce Secretary. They showed their discontent by not supporting Obama's plan. It was even voiced that the Republicans were planing to Block his appointment at the Senate . Did you hear that? Obama should get a Chinese or a Muslin American for that post. These two cultures are better for commercial relationship with the USA than a saddened senator worried by his loosing parties action.

    February 12, 2009 06:45 pm at 6:45 pm |
  35. Ellie, MD

    2010 will be the "DEFINING MOMENT" for the Republicans. They have continued to back stab the American people for far too long.

    And now that the American people needed them to STEP UP and fight for them, what did they do? They voted NO.

    THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THE PARTY OF NOs!!

    THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THE PARTY OF NOs!!

    THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THE PARTY OF NOs!!

    THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THE PARTY OF NOs!!

    NOW it's time the American people send the GOP another message of...

    YES WE WILL CLEAN HOUSE IN 2010!!

    YES WE WILL CLEAN HOUSE IN 2010!!

    YES WE WILL CLEAN HOUSE IN 2010!!

    February 12, 2009 06:47 pm at 6:47 pm |
  36. Sniffit

    EUNUCH

    February 12, 2009 06:48 pm at 6:48 pm |
  37. Lee

    Obviously he is upset with Obama.

    February 12, 2009 06:48 pm at 6:48 pm |
  38. JayJay

    chump

    February 12, 2009 06:50 pm at 6:50 pm |
  39. The Lady

    Watch all the President Obama haters are going to say the reason he is not running for senate in 2010 is because of President Obama. The republicans are a bunch of sore losers, McCain is behind all of this.

    February 12, 2009 06:50 pm at 6:50 pm |
  40. Obama 2.0

    Next!

    February 12, 2009 06:55 pm at 6:55 pm |
  41. Glenn, Cary, NC

    I wonder what the real reason was for going back on his word. It sure wasn't principle.

    February 12, 2009 06:57 pm at 6:57 pm |
  42. chuck

    JUDD GREGG IS SMELLING THE RAT FROM NOW. ALL REPUBLICANS WILL BE KICKED OUT OF OFFICE IN 2010.

    February 12, 2009 06:59 pm at 6:59 pm |
  43. tee

    SEE YA, DON'T WANT TO BE YA!!!!!!!!!

    February 12, 2009 07:00 pm at 7:00 pm |
  44. Political Queen

    Okay! Enough, President Obama has tried the whole inclusion thing, but to no avail. Let's get this party on the road and put people who are 100% on board with the President's agenda. The Republicans have this thing twisted, they're a bunch of spoiled brats. All gripes and no solutions. They'll face a lot of backlash for their inability to look beyond their political careers and put their constituents first! Forget about it!

    February 12, 2009 07:00 pm at 7:00 pm |
  45. Felicia

    I think the repigs are racist animals and i'm tired of trying to justify why the white people acting so ignorant, you people that mad because we have a AA President it's just a shame.

    February 12, 2009 07:03 pm at 7:03 pm |
  46. David in West Virginia

    Senator Gregg Judd just showed the American people that he is typical republican who is out to undermine the Obama Presidency. It was very foolish of Senator Judd to bow out as Commerce Secretary after he lobbied for the position; that being said, it is better now than later. Let's just hope that President Obama learns his lesson and does not seek another republican for his cabinet.

    They do not believe in bi-partisanship as a whole. It's interesting that two senators from Maine and women in the Republican party would have the decency to work in a bipartisan manner with Pres. Obama. They are the real leaders of the republican party. Thank you goes to Senators Collins and Snowe.

    February 12, 2009 07:03 pm at 7:03 pm |
  47. Jane

    Gee a politician who actually stands on his morals. What a refeshing change. Lets see what office he runs for next. Guess trying to "give" a job to a republican to tilt the scales didn't work in this case OB

    February 12, 2009 07:05 pm at 7:05 pm |
  48. Wally

    Gregg is a confused person that will not sacrifice his party ego for the sake of his nation. He has decided to join his bunch of loosers.

    February 12, 2009 07:05 pm at 7:05 pm |
  49. Texas Teacher

    No problem.... I say forget the Republicans! They will smile at your face and laugh at your back! They deserve exactly what they gave Democrats.... to hell with bi partisanship!

    February 12, 2009 07:07 pm at 7:07 pm |
  50. j

    Gregg knows he will lose in 2010.

    February 12, 2009 07:07 pm at 7:07 pm |
  51. beachgirl

    Another Republican NOT WILLING to work with ANY administration, typicall of these morons!!

    Obama will show the world how good of a man he is

    February 12, 2009 07:07 pm at 7:07 pm |
  52. AllWeNeedIsLove

    We will never know the real reason, but I guess we should thank him for getting out now instead of later. I'm sure our President Obama will find someone who really wants to be on his team and believes in the direction he would like to take our country.

    February 12, 2009 07:09 pm at 7:09 pm |
  53. Gerry In Toronto

    Sounds like Gregg has got the message from his constituents. He won't run in 2010 because he knows fully well, he'd lose.

    And even if he did run and win, I don't think he wants to be in Rush's party any longer.

    February 12, 2009 07:11 pm at 7:11 pm |
  54. No Money

    I hope he doesn't. Another automatic chair to the democrats.
    Gregg just doesn't have the nut to fight other GOP's. What a coward!

    February 12, 2009 07:12 pm at 7:12 pm |
  55. RopoloWyo

    Can you say "F-L-A-K-E"

    February 12, 2009 07:15 pm at 7:15 pm |
  56. Douglas, Los Angeles California

    He probably owe taxes.

    February 12, 2009 07:17 pm at 7:17 pm |
  57. Brian

    Serve "the people" or the GOP coffers..... he wants the later..... Republicans need to start taking a closer look at themselves..... Do they truely love America?

    February 12, 2009 07:18 pm at 7:18 pm |
  58. Haidee

    Good & good bye, good luck Judd Gregg. Obama, get a person who you can trust & rely on.

    February 12, 2009 07:18 pm at 7:18 pm |
  59. Pepper Hanrahan

    It's in his best interest to not run. Republicans have become obstrucionist to any change. They even attack their own. The vote for their party and not the people they represent.

    February 12, 2009 07:18 pm at 7:18 pm |
  60. Moonbeam

    This will teach Obama how trustworthy Republicans are!

    February 12, 2009 07:18 pm at 7:18 pm |
  61. Obama 2012

    Obama doesn't need this jelly-back. I'm glad he is getting out. He thinks he is hurting Obama, but he is actually doing him a favor.

    February 12, 2009 07:20 pm at 7:20 pm |
  62. walters

    The timing of his nomination was not on his side. He was late to be confirmed and support the democratic agenda at the same time. It is a gambling situation on his part which he chose to stay safe for him. He also negotiated his seat if confirmed as sec. of commerce to be for his republican colleague and was not a good sign for the Obama administration. He was not dedicated for the peolpe just to sum it up. Good luck to him....

    February 12, 2009 07:20 pm at 7:20 pm |
  63. Gloria

    Glad to see this "spineless" creature go...

    February 12, 2009 07:21 pm at 7:21 pm |
  64. KLS

    If he won't seek re-election in 2010 I wonder what he's hiding from the approval committee? Is he afraid of some of his fellow GOP members? Since Senator Gregg isn't strong enough mentally to handle the challenge then it's a good thing he withdrew.

    February 12, 2009 07:23 pm at 7:23 pm |
  65. Babu

    Republicans will be Republicans- White, Red, Rich and Enemy of Hardworking needy people-Hence a bad fit to the rest of the world.

    February 12, 2009 07:23 pm at 7:23 pm |
  66. Polarbearme

    Gregg would rather be part of the problem than part of the solution.

    February 12, 2009 07:26 pm at 7:26 pm |
  67. John

    Yawn.. I hope your crazy Mob Mentallity clears up soon... nothing like a bunch of people running the US they why we ran our state (california...i.e. nothing but Dems and broke people)

    February 12, 2009 07:28 pm at 7:28 pm |
  68. Don

    These republicans should be ashamed of themselves. The country is is dire straights now, largely because of them, now, rather them help, they choose to cut and run. Shame on them. As a life long republican ( I did vote for Obama) I can't wait for the next election to throw them all out!!

    February 12, 2009 07:30 pm at 7:30 pm |
  69. catmom

    Are you sure he doesn't have tax problems? Not running for reelection after giving up the Cabinet position seems fishy. What else is going on with him?

    February 12, 2009 07:31 pm at 7:31 pm |
  70. Sacto Joe

    Good. New Hampshire deserves better. Maybe this time they'll wise up and elect a Democrat!

    Senator Obama, you gave the Repubs a chance. They did everything but knife you in the back. It's time to let them stew in their own juices for a while.

    February 12, 2009 07:31 pm at 7:31 pm |
  71. Pat

    "THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, THE PARTY OF NOs!!"
    You do realize that that is entirely prospective based and lacks any real substance?
    They are also the party pro-family values, pro-the protection of the second amendment, ect

    February 12, 2009 07:36 pm at 7:36 pm |
  72. PC

    RopoloWyo February 12th, 2009 7:15 pm ET
    Can you say "F-L-A-K-E"
    ---------
    "RopoloWyo," whatever THAT stupid "handle" means (but wait - it's a LIberal wacko) - I can say HERO to Gregg! And I say it LOUD AND CLEAR! AMERICAN HERO - AMERICAN HERO - AMERICAN HERO - AMERICAN HERO!

    February 12, 2009 07:36 pm at 7:36 pm |
  73. Dave G

    I think someone high in the Republican party threatened Judd Gregg. They must have had something on him...

    February 12, 2009 07:37 pm at 7:37 pm |
  74. paul (staunch Moderate)

    After bowing to pressure from his own party to NOT work with the Obama administration as Sec of Commerce, it seems a savvy move to decide to bow out of politics when his term is up.

    February 12, 2009 07:39 pm at 7:39 pm |
  75. joe

    How can we know with his acceptance and withdrawal of the the nomination don't you think he is a flip flopper!

    February 12, 2009 07:41 pm at 7:41 pm |
  76. LG in Atlanta

    Judd Greg woke up just in time. This administration is a farce and has no interest in bi-partisanship. I had hopes initially but after 3 weeks, Obama is more of the same old Washington......only much, much worse. Time to think about 2012. Isn't there any honest people in office anymore?

    February 12, 2009 07:42 pm at 7:42 pm |
  77. Bankrupt in Tx

    Symantec boss John Thompson is on a two-person shortlist to fill the role of the next US Commerce Secretary.
    Former Time Warner chairman Richard Parsons is reportedly the other person on the Commerce Secretary shortlist.

    February 12, 2009 07:43 pm at 7:43 pm |
  78. Sunshine

    God Bless you Pres. Obama. Better without him.

    February 12, 2009 07:43 pm at 7:43 pm |
  79. dele

    hmmm, something fishy here. Please CNN investigate to see that the guy was not treatened to withdraw.
    I smell something here. Please Investigate.

    February 12, 2009 07:44 pm at 7:44 pm |
  80. Jerry in NC

    This is a clear example to ALL of the american people. The republican party and their elected officials in Washington are concerned ONLY about politics, winning and fighting the democrats. They care nothing about the very critical condition of their country and doing what is right to fix it! That "excuse for a man" asked for the job and then backed out after pressure from his political party. In my opinion, President Obama needs to scrap the idea of bipartisanship and just do whatever is needed to help put his country back on track. It's obvious, that the republicans are going to do all they can to obstruct and sabotage the president's efforts, every chance they get. The republican party.....the part of the people????? WHAT A JOKE!!!!

    February 12, 2009 07:46 pm at 7:46 pm |
  81. Anonymous

    your a fool at 50 forever

    February 12, 2009 07:49 pm at 7:49 pm |
  82. Apples for sale

    Republicans and General Custer have alot in common,they were both braggerts and got their due.

    February 12, 2009 07:49 pm at 7:49 pm |
  83. paul

    I think that people should see this as a sign that there is not much CHANGE happening within this new president's office or the democratic party. Greg is an INDEPENDENT who is also a republican. His decisions were definitely based on his personal views and not the party of his choice forcing him to drop out.

    We need to look at this as something important to look at!

    February 12, 2009 07:50 pm at 7:50 pm |
  84. Elmer

    This seems like another case of Obama seeming to reach out to Republicans with his feigned bipartisanship since his underlying theme is "I want your input ....... but only if you agree with me." His lack of executive branch experience is becoming more evident everyday....Senators talk, Presidents walk the walk. Believe me, we all want him to understand this sooner than later ... for all of our sakes.

    February 12, 2009 07:52 pm at 7:52 pm |
  85. Dan

    Gregg, It was was a smart decision to leave Barack alone. We cannot believe in his change. We are going down the hill. I wish you all the best and hope you will keep your senate seat in 2010. We are all with you.

    February 12, 2009 07:53 pm at 7:53 pm |
  86. Diane

    Gregg a man to be admired. He thought of his coutry first not the beltway and himself. Stand up for New Hampshire as we come together to confront the economic crisis facing our nation. Do not spend your $1.86 a day all in one place.

    February 12, 2009 07:55 pm at 7:55 pm |
  87. Janice

    Hopefully President Obama will see that he just can't make the other side happy, they are impossible to work with. Rahm Emanuel should tell the Pres what he would say to them; F#$% them! Get this country back on track Mr President with them or without them!

    February 12, 2009 07:57 pm at 7:57 pm |
  88. Blake Southwood

    I suppose it's better to step down then for Judd Gregg to
    fail miserably at the post so I appreciate his willingness
    to step down rather then carry through with the job.
    When you know you know. And this will ultimately be
    better for America and for President Obama and Vice
    Prisident Biden.

    February 12, 2009 08:03 pm at 8:03 pm |
  89. S Callahan

    lol and you really believe that......

    more like a fire briming towards his face screaming get out or else!

    February 12, 2009 08:10 pm at 8:10 pm |
  90. michelle

    this makes me wonder if there isnt some kind of conspiracy within the republicans to try and make President Obama look badly
    they are just jealous bc he got elected and bc he is so popular and
    in my opinion this makes Gregg look bad and the republicans NOT President Obama and his administration
    Gregg knew from the beginning what this presidents policies were so give me a break!!
    The republicans and a lot of talking heads need to grow up

    February 12, 2009 08:14 pm at 8:14 pm |
  91. PC

    Apples for sale February 12th, 2009 7:49 pm ET
    Republicans and General Custer have alot in common

    ----------

    Please explain, "Apples," HOW SO? Of course, you can't/won't!!!!!!!!! Just spouting garbage.

    February 12, 2009 08:15 pm at 8:15 pm |
  92. James

    Someone please tell the Democratic posters here that they already have control of the White House, the House of Reps and the Senate.

    They should be happy and not foolishly whining all the time. Isn't three government entities enough control for you guys? Must you insist that everyone become a robot and think like you too?

    You would think that you could actually accomplish something with that much power, but all I ever hear is whining and complaining and an obsession with republicans and what we are doing, or worse, that we don't want to think and live like you do.

    f you don't like how we live, live your own way, but don't try to make us do it too.

    Get a real life and actually accomplish something with the power God is allowing you to have right now. Otherwise, he may take it back and return it to us in a couple of years. Don't you want to say you actually did something while you had the power?

    February 12, 2009 08:15 pm at 8:15 pm |
  93. Matt

    I hope the President now realises that it's past time to leave republicans in the rear-view mirror. Why he thought it was a good idea to get involved with these people I will never know.

    February 12, 2009 08:15 pm at 8:15 pm |
  94. PC

    Cynthia – Arkansas February 12th, 2009 6:44 pm ET
    He's scared of Rush and the other hit squad, I mean Republicans. They have already threatened anyone who supports the stimulus plan.
    --------------
    How so, Cynthia – Arkansas? Surely you can explain, right?

    February 12, 2009 08:17 pm at 8:17 pm |
  95. big papa

    I long for the day (may it be soon)...

    ...when we can all speak of CONSERVATIVES and REPUBLICANS...

    ...in the PAST TENSE!

    February 12, 2009 08:17 pm at 8:17 pm |
  96. rich

    He did the country a favor. For God Sakes to be nominated for the Commerce Secretary and don't vote for the administration stimulus plan is the height of partisan politics. I say good riddance. He should have not been nominated in the first place. I for one was not comfortable with his prior political positions.

    February 12, 2009 08:19 pm at 8:19 pm |
  97. Meka

    HE DON'T NEED TO RUN FOR OFFICE ANYMORE . . . HE SEEMS TO BE CONFUSED!

    ONE MIGHT SAY "BEEN THERE TOO LONG"

    February 12, 2009 08:23 pm at 8:23 pm |
  98. Sniffit

    Ashamed yet NH?

    February 12, 2009 08:24 pm at 8:24 pm |
  99. Harry

    The timing of this is unbelievable....

    This is lincon's Bday and lincon freed the slaves....

    There was a ceremony of lincon bday today....

    Can we say this is racism of the highest order?

    February 12, 2009 08:24 pm at 8:24 pm |
  100. rc

    As a moderate republican (who voted Obama), reading the comments on these boards is getting sickening. Yes, republicans had control for the last 8 years but not anymore. Eventually that talking point is going to mean nothing and Pres. Obama's administration and supporters are going to have to stand up on their own. I just hope they do it with respect instead of the condescending comments I've been reading. Republicans are guilty of the same things, but it's clear to me that Pres. Obama's biggest weakness will eventually be all of you who feel entitled to talk down to everyone else because your "savior" is finally in power. A "me first!" and "republicans suck!" America... change you can really believe in...

    February 12, 2009 08:26 pm at 8:26 pm |
  101. Lilly Rose

    The man is a quitter. President Obama chose him to join his administration and the wimp quit because he didn't like the stimulus package or some such nonsense. What is it with Republicans not wanting America to succeed just because the president is a Democrat. Judd, did Rush Limbaugh, the real head of the RNC, tell you to quit? For pete's sake, grown a pair.

    February 12, 2009 08:28 pm at 8:28 pm |
  102. Lori

    President Obama needs to get a spine and stop trying to work with the Republicans who obviously want to see him and the American people fail. Pres Obama and the Dems won for a reason. It is their agenda and ideas that the American people overwhelming accepted. Treat the Republicans the same way George W treated the Dems.

    February 12, 2009 08:33 pm at 8:33 pm |
  103. the Good New Party

    I'm so proud of Obama... He never dumbs things down for us to understand. He lets us know what we already know and I find comfort in that he's feeling my joys and pains. What a breathe of fresh air from the last 8 years. Judd Gregg could have learned alot from him.

    I'm voting in 2010 and 2012!!! Go Obama

    February 12, 2009 08:34 pm at 8:34 pm |
  104. Andrea P in MIAMI

    WE, THE PEOPLE SAW WHAT WAS HAPPENING WHEN ONE OF THE LARGEST OIL COMPANIES, HA\LIBURTON MOVED THEIR OPERATIONS TO DUBAI. Dick Cheney said, "they did not see this crisis coming – yeah right!!!! Now just before he left office Mr. Bush doled out trillions of dollars to his friends because he knew that there would be "freezes" and "discoveries" when the new President took over. The Republicans are sore losers. While in power they "raped" the country and made the outside world believe that America was a "rich" country, so now that the world knows it was all a fake, they are shamelessly coming up with all sorts of "fickle" excuses not to help the Obama administration. But God put Mr. Obama in power and no one can make him fail. So these naysayers like Rush will sooner end up with some kind of terminal illness so they had better watch what happens when they are in that suspended state called "sleep" and their "spirits" can be tampered with.

    February 12, 2009 08:35 pm at 8:35 pm |
  105. Meka

    CONGRESS TERM LIMITS . . . 12 YEARS, NO RETIREMENT!

    February 12, 2009 08:36 pm at 8:36 pm |
  106. independent

    Please go after the two GOP hacks here in Georgia.

    February 12, 2009 08:36 pm at 8:36 pm |
  107. Death of America by Obama

    I'll vote for you sir.

    February 12, 2009 08:36 pm at 8:36 pm |
  108. Larry

    He will PROBABLY need too.

    February 12, 2009 08:37 pm at 8:37 pm |
  109. curtis

    I advise president Obama to forget GOP. They are playing pure bad Politics.

    February 12, 2009 08:40 pm at 8:40 pm |
  110. rich

    Wow trying to leave the party is like leaving a gang.I bet he got alot of threats against his life ,and thats just from people he knows.

    February 12, 2009 08:40 pm at 8:40 pm |
  111. independent

    Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell welcomed Gregg's withdrawal.

    The GOP only knows government by conflict, not compromise. They believe in total control, not tolerance. Kick those who gridlock government out of office

    February 12, 2009 08:40 pm at 8:40 pm |
  112. Todd (not the Alaska Separatist)

    Good riddance!

    February 12, 2009 08:41 pm at 8:41 pm |
  113. BRUTIS

    Another FLAKE REPUBLICAN...

    February 12, 2009 08:43 pm at 8:43 pm |
  114. Larry from RI

    Another example of GOP bipartisanship?
    A shining example and poster child for those who would rather see our President and the Nation fail rather than work together for the common good, and for what – partisan politics and a failed ideology.

    Shame on the GOP!

    February 12, 2009 08:45 pm at 8:45 pm |
  115. annie

    USA wake up and be behind obama or lose the power and follow as you can not lead any more if you are not united you can nt stand for economy recovery and the world will not wait after Republicans nor Dems . The World will invent a new way if you are so much lost with tax problems for politicians and discord policies and ignorance of economy of GOP.

    February 12, 2009 08:48 pm at 8:48 pm |
  116. JT

    he is tied to the abramoff scandal, you ain't heard the last of that.

    February 12, 2009 08:54 pm at 8:54 pm |
  117. Objective

    Hey CNN,
    How about some real debate and story lines here?
    Look, Obama was elected to shake things up.
    Republicans were elected to hold the line.
    There is going to be friction. There is nothing wrong with people on either side staying true to their constituants that voted them in. Doesn't matter which party they are in.

    Me personally, I have never wanted my medical records to be electronic for HMO access, and I don't want to pay 50 billion dollars in a recession to get it.

    February 12, 2009 08:56 pm at 8:56 pm |
  118. sue

    Greggs an IDIOT!
    Obviously he can be bullied by his kind...he showed us again why the republicans should not be running anything!

    February 12, 2009 08:56 pm at 8:56 pm |
  119. winkie

    Good ridance to bad rubbish. He was nothing but another leach on the people of his district.

    February 12, 2009 08:58 pm at 8:58 pm |
  120. mjm

    @Ellie, MD

    The Republican Party says "no" to stupid ideas.

    Barrowing and then spending $789 billion is a stupid idea.

    February 12, 2009 08:58 pm at 8:58 pm |
  121. John

    Best case: situation is that obama is ignorant and inexperienced and doesn't have a clue to what he's doing.

    Worst case: obama is purposely trying to destroy our country to replace it with socialism.

    Anyone who has ethical bone in their body would not serve under obama. Just look at the lack of quality of his administration. Pitiful!

    February 12, 2009 08:59 pm at 8:59 pm |
  122. sue

    Gregg...Old Yeller!

    February 12, 2009 09:01 pm at 9:01 pm |
  123. annie

    USA is in hard time and republicans are playing politics instead of solving real problems. This way of acting is the way empires collaspe and disaprear year after year – soon – USA will be a small Republic of Banana like any other middle economic power in this world of competition and discord. If Obama does not get all people of America together behind him and help the Economy revovery, be sure that the USA power will be over very very soon. And the very first responsible of this crisis are guess who = Republicans (unwise on economy and with old ideas of power, ideas that do not fit with the world new time —

    February 12, 2009 09:06 pm at 9:06 pm |
  124. Targar

    The Republican Party is doing every thing it can to stop president Obama from getting this Country out of this mess George Bush and the Republicans put this country in. They are talking about spending on the American people is too mush money. I wonder how mush are we spending in Iraq?

    February 12, 2009 09:06 pm at 9:06 pm |
  125. Mel of Alexandria, Virginia

    Look to his left and to his right, birds of a feather flock together.

    HYPOCRITES

    February 12, 2009 09:07 pm at 9:07 pm |
  126. the other Dan

    Make Bill Maher the next commerce sec. Maybe he pays his taxes too. As Bill says, Obama is still learning.

    February 12, 2009 09:08 pm at 9:08 pm |
  127. maria

    What is with this guy? Couldn't handle the approach to the Census that the White House is advocating? We are better off without him.

    February 12, 2009 09:09 pm at 9:09 pm |
  128. Hope

    You just nailed your chances, we need Democrats to hit the 60 threshold to deliver Universal Health Care

    February 12, 2009 09:15 pm at 9:15 pm |
  129. Barbara Wright

    My guess is that Gregg has been bullied into submission by the Limbaugh crowd.

    February 12, 2009 09:16 pm at 9:16 pm |
  130. R in Maine

    Of course he is quitting service to his country. He is just a freaking republican, after all. He wanted to control the redistricting, and is not willing to play if he cannot be completely in control.

    February 12, 2009 09:17 pm at 9:17 pm |
  131. Hope

    The Latinos have won tonight, he wanted to mess around with the censors.

    February 12, 2009 09:18 pm at 9:18 pm |
  132. Edrita

    Roland Martin was absolutely correct. It is pointless to think President Obama can teach old Republican Dog new tricks. They will just roll over and play dead. The Republicans are bitter losers and will do anything to cause The President to fail. Even have a black heading their party.
    They don’t get it, The President was not elected because he was black, it was because He is so Smart! Stop trying to be fair to Repb’s and be the leader we elected. We trust him to select the right person for the job. Gregg is a trixter and it’s good he didn’t get the job.
    Forget partisan politics and get us out of this mess the Repb’s got us into. The President only have a hundred days to clear this up, otherwise we will all be in hell.
    Edrita, TX

    February 12, 2009 09:18 pm at 9:18 pm |
  133. once upon a horse

    Let the door hit you where the good Lord split you!

    February 12, 2009 09:20 pm at 9:20 pm |
  134. JON

    WHO CARES THE MAN HAS NO HONOR

    February 12, 2009 09:21 pm at 9:21 pm |
  135. Bridg

    This loser knows the writing's on the wall. I can't wait for 2010 to get here so he and the other unpatriotic losers called Republicans can be voted out of offices once and for all.

    February 12, 2009 09:26 pm at 9:26 pm |
  136. Proud American

    It just goes to show you that you cannot work with those Republican Idiots. Well lord we tried.

    February 12, 2009 09:30 pm at 9:30 pm |
  137. usualone

    Just read a CNN article where the Republicans say that the Democrats are setting up the 2010 census. Seems to me they were responsible for states such as Texas being split so that there were more Republican-favored areas than in previous years. There is something fishy here for this guy withdrawing from Commerce. The Republicans are so "loud" and I hope the public doesn't fall into their trap. Everyone has to remember that they put us into this terrible economic situation plus the expensive Iraq war.

    February 12, 2009 09:35 pm at 9:35 pm |
  138. SOUTHERN HOTTIE

    Turncoat.
    He withdrew after he spoke with is fellow obstructionists.
    And now they want to say Barack is inexperienced.

    Idiots.

    Lincoln too was inexperienced but he freed the slaves and reunited the Union with the Confederacy ( those freaking southern relatives of mine).

    Sigh.

    WHY DO REPUBLICANS HATE AMERICA? I DON'T UNDERSTAND.

    I WEEP FOR MY COUNTRY.

    February 12, 2009 09:37 pm at 9:37 pm |
  139. Mac

    If he does run, the will be the number one Democratic target!

    February 12, 2009 09:40 pm at 9:40 pm |
  140. jr

    blaming the stimulus is a farce. the basics of the stimulus have been know for quite some time. he obviously has something to hide or succumbed to pressure from his party.

    February 12, 2009 09:41 pm at 9:41 pm |
  141. Marie R

    They republican senate can threaten their party members but their threats won't hurt the american people.Same old politics as usual .Those wealthy thugs that want us to beleive that they are for this president are lying through their teeth. Most of them are a bunch of snakes. McCain lost and they hate it.Just look back at all the dirt that was thrown at Obama during the campaign and yes Mccain's campaign was part of it but some of those snakes that you call republicans in senate also played a huge part the Rev Wright tapes just showing up after almost 2 years,Ayers,Acorn,false ads all of it.Just look where Lieberman is now backing the democrats as if he was with the party the entire time durung the campaign and it can be said he was the lead cobra.It will be the Obama administration and the democrats that will get the last laugh because the republicans are running out of lies and deceit and becomming so transparent to the american people.It is sad that these people will put politics before they very people that put them where they are today but my fellow americans.. democrats, republicans and independents that want to give Obama a chance please continue to hold on to faith and beleive that brighter days will come.There will continue to be people that want you to think Obama is not change but it is only those who do not seek change and will hate him regardless of what he good he does

    February 12, 2009 09:42 pm at 9:42 pm |
  142. windrider

    I think Gregg did what he was told by Party leaders by withdrawing his name for nomination, but he's also expressing his disgust with the direction of the party by choosing not to run for re-election (as quite a few senators and representatives have done in the last 3 years). That doesn't necessarily mean that the Dems will capture his seat but let"s face it, Republican senators in the Northeast are becoming an endangered species.

    February 12, 2009 09:47 pm at 9:47 pm |
  143. Marie R

    They republican senate can threaten their party members but their threats won't hurt the american people.Same old politics as usual .Those wealthy thugs that want us to beleive that they are for this president are lying through their teeth. Most of them are a bunch of snakes. McCain lost and they hate it.Just look back at all the dirt that was thrown at Obama during the campaign and yes Mccain's campaign was part of it but some of those snakes that you call republicans in senate also played a huge part.... the Rev Wright tapes just showing up after almost 2 years,Ayers,Acorn,false ads all of it.Just look where Lieberman is now backing the democrats as if he was with the party the entire time durung the campaign and it can be said he was the lead cobra.It will be the Obama administration and the democrats that will get the last laugh because the republicans are running out of lies and deceit and becomming so transparent to the american people.It is sad that these people will put politics before the very people that put them where they are today but my fellow americans.. democrats, republicans and independents that want to give Obama a chance please continue to hold on to faith and beleive that brighter days will come.There will continue to be people that want you to think Obama is not change but it is only those who do not seek change and will hate him regardless of what good he does

    February 12, 2009 09:48 pm at 9:48 pm |
  144. Justin from New Haven, CT

    Good riddance.

    February 12, 2009 09:48 pm at 9:48 pm |
  145. Simmy

    Fickleness is not an admirable quality – especially in a man.

    February 12, 2009 09:52 pm at 9:52 pm |
  146. Rose

    I did not trust Gregg. I am glad to see him go! Mr. President, mark my word, You WILL suceed. The Republicans doesn't have a chance trying to stop you.

    February 12, 2009 09:56 pm at 9:56 pm |
  147. zago

    He is angry. He wanted Obama to hire him as president. The commerce cabinet position is too small

    February 12, 2009 10:03 pm at 10:03 pm |
  148. Penn Voter

    Way to go Gregg ! Tell him to take the job and stick where the sun don't shine.

    February 12, 2009 10:04 pm at 10:04 pm |
  149. Conservatives are Dying, Liberals Turning 18

    What a spineless wimp this guy is. I think the Obama admin was spared a blunder by this silly little man's flameout.

    February 12, 2009 10:06 pm at 10:06 pm |
  150. Rick Sutter

    Why do liberals hate America?

    February 12, 2009 10:10 pm at 10:10 pm |
  151. Dennis

    One of the issues he had was the 2010 census and the fact that this administration said it would make sure it's done correctly or words to that effect. Just what is it about the 2010 census that has the Republicans so scared?

    February 12, 2009 10:11 pm at 10:11 pm |
  152. Lynn in NM

    He should run. He is exactly the type of person the government needs.

    February 13, 2009 08:16 am at 8:16 am |

Post a comment


 

CNN welcomes a lively and courteous discussion as long as you follow the Rules of Conduct set forth in our Terms of Service. Comments are not pre-screened before they post. You agree that anything you post may be used, along with your name and profile picture, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the license you have granted pursuant to our Terms of Service.