Former Rep. Barney Frank — snubbed as the interim senate replacement for new Secretary of State John Kerry — issued a terse statement of congratulations to Mo Cowan on Wednesday.
Massachusetts Gov. Devel Patrick tapped Cowan — who was the governor’s chief legal counsel and then his chief of staff until last November when he returned to the private sector — despite lobbying by Frank.
“I know Mr. Cowan is committed to working hard and in a socially-fair and economically-efficient manner toward resolving pending budget issues,’’ Frank said in a brief statement.
“I now look forward to working for the election of [Rep.] Ed Markey to continue this work, and to providing President Obama the support he deserves in carrying out the mandate he received in November.’’
Patrick said the appointment process was “tough’’ because of so many qualified candidates, including Frank.
Earlier this month, Frank said “I think I’m better prepared than most people,’’ to replace Kerry, now Secretary of State.
Cowan will be an interim senator until a special election on July 25.
Markey faces a primary challenge from Rep. Stephen Lynch, who is set to formally announce his candidacy for the Democratic Senate nomination Thursday.
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