Reid Defends Geithner, Supports Him for Treasury

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he will support Treasury Secretary nominee Timothy Geithner despite Tuesday’s revelation of that he had been delinquent on taxes.

Reid met with Geithner Tuesday and issued the following statement:

“During my meeting with Treasury Secretary-designee Geithner, it quickly became clear why President-elect Obama designated him to be a key player in our fight to turn around our deeply troubled economy and to help working families. He demonstrated a deep overall understanding of our economy and was particularly knowledgeable about our financial markets, including what led to the problems we face today and what we need to do to address them.

“While I do not know Mr. Geithner well, I do understand honest mistakes. Since the mistakes in his tax filings came to his attention, Mr. Geithner has paid all taxes due, including all interest. I continue to believe he has the skills the President will need to confront the challenges of our nation