posted 01-06-2011 08:08 PM               

Governor Martinez Nominates Astronaut, Former Sen. Harrison "Jack" Schmitt As Energy, Minerals, And Natural Resources Secretary

Governor Susana Martinez held a press conference in the Cabinet Room at the Capitol today to announce that she has nominated former astronaut and United States Senator Harrison "Jack" Schmitt to serve as secretary of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. In addition to his tenure in elected office, Sen. Schmitt is also a decorated public servant, scientist, and businessman.

After announcing the nomination, Governor Martinez stated, "Senator Schmitt's diverse background gives him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be helpful in guiding the responsible development and protection of New Mexico's diverse natural resources. Harnessing and developing energy sources right here in New Mexico is critical to reviving our economy and creating jobs."

After receiving his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1964, Schmitt earned his Air Force jet pilot wings in 1965 and Navy helicopter pilot wings in 1967. He was selected for NASA's Scientist- Astronaut program in 1965. He served as Mission Scientist in support of the Apollo 11 mission and flew in space as part of the Apollo 17 mission. Schmitt landed on the Moon on December 11, 1972. After his career at NASA, Schmitt was elected to the United States Senate in 1976 and served in office for six years as a member of the Commerce, Banking, Appropriations, Intelligence, and Ethics Committees. Sen. Schmitt received his B.A. from Caltech and has received numerous awards and recognitions for his public service and work as a scientist.

In response to his nomination, Sen. Schmitt said, "I am proud to continue my career of public service as secretary of the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department under Governor Martinez. I look forward to working with the Governor to enhance New Mexico's potential to be a leader in energy and natural resource development."

posted 02-10-2011 11:22 PM               

Sen. Harrison Schmitt Withdraws Nomination to Lead State's Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

Governor Susana Martinez issued the following statement following Senator Harrison Schmitt's decision to withdraw his nomination to serve as the State's Secretary of Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources:

"Senator Schmitt is a former NASA astronaut who underwent a complete background check by the Department of Public Safety as part of his nomination process.

"Senator Schmitt was willing to allow a private investigator access to his personal information, but he was not willing to waive that investigator's liability for any improper actions or use of that information. While one can understand Senator Schmitt's concerns, complying with the Legislature's request is necessary to restore public confidence in state government. That's why I am requiring all of my cabinet secretary designees to comply with that request and this has led to Senator Schmitt withdrawing his nomination.

"I wish Senator Schmitt the best in his future endeavors and I will work swiftly to find a qualified replacement to lead New Mexico's Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department."

posted 02-11-2011 11:11 AM               

In the first place why would the state pay a private investigator to do a background check. Don't they have a New Mexico Bureau of Investigation or at least a state trooper investigation division? That should be their job.

I fail to see how public confidence in officials is furthered by using a PI who will not take responsibility for his work product. The PI could simply make up facts and not bother with investigations. In addition, the PI should be held liable if personal information is released. You expect this from your doctor (and under Federal law privacy is required) why not from a private individual or firm that will have access to all your personal information.

Senator Schmitt and other individuals willing to serve certainly should have their backgrounds checked, however they should also have assurances that the information gained is held in a confidential manner unless they authorize its release.

posted 02-12-2011 11:02 AM               

Every state's Department of Justice has access to the FBI database and the background info contained therein. I seriously doubt a private investigator has info as detailed as the FBI. State and federal law protects this private information from being released to anyone without a warrant.