Obama Nominates San Marino Businessman for Commerce Secretary

President Obama nominated San Marino resident and former Edison International CEO John Bryson for U.S. Commerce Secretary Tuesday, according to the Pasadena Star-News.

The decision faced Republican opposition, said the Star-News, sparked by the GOP's desire to have Obama advance free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea before considering any Commerce Secretary nomination.

San Marino Mayor Allan Yung declined to comment to Patch on the nomination since he said he said he was not familiar enough with Bryson or the situation. San Marino resident Charles Murray, whom Governor Schwarzeneggar appointed to the California Citizens Compensation Commission before he left office, also claimed the same.

A message Patch left with local 's office Wednesday was not returned by Wednesday night but Eng will be contacted again for comment.

The Star-News reached Rep. David Dreier, R-San Dimas, who represents San Marino and other cities in Congress.

"I have known John Bryson for many years and found him to be a thoughtful and hardworking individual," said Dreier in an e-mailed statement. "I am hopeful that Mr. Bryson would agree and pledge to work with the president and the U.S. Senate so that his nomination and the job-creating FTAs can advance as soon as possible."

Patch will update this story and local reaction as it progresses.