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Senator objects to quick hearing for Treasury pick

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-01-15 00:11

WASHINGTON – A top Senate Republican is blocking a quick hearing for Timothy Geithner, President-elect Barack Obama's pick to head the Treasury Department, after learning that Geithner had failed to pay $34,000 in taxes.

Timothy Geithner [Agencies]

Senate Democrats are seeking a hearing for Geithner on Friday before the Finance Committee. That would skirt rules requiring a full week's notice before scheduling such a session.

An aide close to the confirmation process says that Sen. Jon S. Kyl of Arizona, the No. 2 Republican on the committee, has objected to a fast track for Geithner.

If the GOP refuses to drop its objection, Geithner won't be confirmed until after Obama is sworn in as president on Tuesday.

Geithner has now paid the taxes he owes.