Posted by Sen. Reid's Staff  on 7/21/2011 - 5:04 PM

 
It was a pleasure for me to introduce Mark Wetjen today at his nomination hearing before the Senate. Mark came to work in my office in the fall of 2004. He had been a successful lawyer working at a firm in Reno, but he was drawn to public service. And so he moved his family to Washington, and for seven years he has been an asset to my office.

Although Mark’s nomination to be a commissioner on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission meant my office would lose him, I knew it was the country’s gain. I was glad President Obama appointed such a qualified candidate to serve in this important role.

During his time in my office, Mark was an effective staffer who worked well with others on both sides of aisle. He assisted me and the Congress on many of the responses to the economic challenges our nation has faced in the last few years. So he already understands the context and the goals of the commission’s important work of implementing reforms.

I always appreciated Mark’s advice because I knew it would be balanced and reflect a consideration of all views on a problem or issue. I also appreciated his ability to anticipate problems rather than wait for them to come along.

As I said, I was sorry to lose Mark. I counted on his knowledge and his objective advice. But I know he will be a measured and independent voice at the commission. He will be an asset to his country in this new role as a commissioner on the Commodities Future Trading Commission.

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