Skandera confirmation still unresolved

SANTA FE (KRQE) - After two days of hearings at the Legislature, there's still no vote in the confirmation of Education Secretary-designate Hanna Skandera.

A massive turnout of people wanting to comment on the controversial appointee forced the Senate Rules Committee to move second day of the hearing to move to the Senate floor.

Skandera supporters say she's done a good job in her two years in the position and brings needed reform.

"I think this governor has the ability the authority and the right to choose the person she wants to represent her," said Sen. Gay Kernan, R-Hobbs.

Opponents say she's not qualified for the job because under the state Constitution the education secretary needs to be a qualified and experienced educator while Skandera has no classroom experience.

"It was true 100 years ago, and it's true today: our leaders need experience in New Mexico, not California and not Florida," said Carol Brown, who opposes the nomination.

The Skandera hearings are expected to continue next week with the committee questioning the nominee.

No matter what the committee decides, the full Senate still has to vote on her confirmation.