Newest Senate Member Reacts To Passage Of Unemployment Extenders

By Rob Sanna - Talk Radio News Service

Shortly after Carte Goodwin (D-W.Va) was sworn into the U.S. Senate this afternoon, the chamber voted 60-40 to pass a $34 billion measure to extend unemployment benefits to Americans through November.

Goodwin, a 36-year-old former aide to West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin (D), was appointed by his old boss last week to fill the Senate seat previously occupied by the late Robert Byrd (D).

“I feel privileged to have played a small role helping to move this legislation forward. Obviously, no one can replace Senator Byrd, nor can anyone really hope to fill his shoes, but I feel privileged to have the opportunity to try and emulate his work ethic and his commitment to the law, this body, and the state of West Virginia.” said Goodwin following the vote.

In all likelihood, Goodwin will merely serve as a placeholder for Manchin, who hopes to win the seat in a special election on November 2.