Official: Locke likely to head Commerce Former Washington governor would be Obama's third pick for post NBC, msnbc.com and news services updated 2:49 p.m. PT, Mon., Feb. 23, 2009 A senior administration official says President Barack Obama's likely pick to head up the Commerce Department is former Washington Gov. Gary Locke. Locke will be Obama's third pick to lead the department. Republican Sen. Judd Gregg withdrew his name from contention on Feb. 12, citing "irresolvable conflicts" over the president's massive stimulus plan. New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson dropped out of the running last month, citing the distraction of a federal investigation into the awarding of a lucrative contract in his state. Locke served two terms as governor of Washington state. NBC's Chuck Todd contributed to this story. © 2009 msnbc.com URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29355278/
