CFTC Open Commission Seats

There are two open Republican seats on the CFTC. The White House is interviewing prospective candidates. The leading candidates are: Walt Luken, Professional Staff Member on the Senate Agriculture Minority Staff; Ryan Weston, Professional Staff on the House Agriculture Majority Staff; and Sharon Brown-Hruska, an economist with the Mercatur Center and friend of Wendy Gramm's.

I have been asked by Walt Luken to be a reference for his candidacy. Walt was instrumental in the CFMA, especially on the energy/metals exemption and is a pro-market supporter. Linda and I know Walt well and believe he would be a good candidate. Lisa has met with Walt. We know his philosophical background and he is a friend of Enron. I would like to be able to help him by being a reference.

Ryan Weston is also a friend of Enron and is pro-market. His somewhat less experienced that Walt, but would be a good choice as well..

We do not know much about Sharon Brown-Hruska expect she worked at the CFTC from 1990-1995 and holds a PhD in Finance. Steve and Rick - Could you find out if we have made a commitment to Wendy Gramm on Brown-Hruska.

An ideal combination for the CFTC, would be to have Walt and/or Ryan. However, there is some consensus that a Commissioner with a strong financial background would be beneficial.

Please advise.