Some Democrats 'Open-Minded' on Pompeo

Some Democratic senators are keeping an open mind about the candidacy of Mike Pompeo for Secretary of State, according to multiple reports.

Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson said he was encouraged by Pompeo's secret talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying he sees the secretary of state candidate in "a better light" now, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

"It's a lot better talking than shooting, especially when the crazy child dictator has nuclear weapons," the Times quoted Nelson, D-Florida.

Nelson said he voted against Pompeo for CIA director and added he's still undecided which way he'll vote in his bid to run the State Department.

"I thought he was going to be too political," Nelson told the Times, but added the North Korea trip put Pompeo in "a better light."

Likewise, Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin and Doug Jones have both said they are keeping an open mind about Pompeo. Both have met with Pompeo or are planning to.

Though not in the Senate, Democratic Rep. Jim Himes said he would vote for Pompeo if he were in the upper chamber.

"He served his country with distinction in the military, he’s a very smart guy and he’s a very pragmatic guy. So yeah, you know what, if I were in the Senate my guess is that I’d probably be inclined to vote to confirm him," Himes said.

• WH: Pompeo Confirmation Delay May Impact NKorea Talks
• Tom Cotton: Pompeo-Kim Meeting Key Reason to Confirm Him