McHugh breaks free; Aubertine backs Owens

It looks like two Republican Senators from Kansas have dropped their effort to block the confirmation of Rep. John McHugh as Army Secretary.

The vote is expected to come quickly. that will clear the way for a full-throated campaign to replace him.

(What we’ve experienced so far has been a mild gargle compared to the scrum to follow…)

Meanwhile, in a move that was expected but that still matters, Democratic state Senator Darrel Aubertine (the man many Dems wanted to run) has endorsed Plattsburgh attorney Bill Owens.

From the release:

“Bill has made it clear that he has the best interests of farmers and ranchers in mind,” said Senator Aubertine. “As a farmer myself, I know Bill understands our values and will fight for our needs in Congress. I am proud to lend my name to his campaign, and look forward to sending Bill Owens to Congress.”