Republicans need to pick up the senate seats held by Dims in ND and Montana, and if Heitkamp is qualified for a cabinet position, this could be a good move to aid a pickup in the senate.
Just consider the nomination of Sessions...Susan Collins has already publically backed Sessions, in fact she did it 2 days after he was chosen.
Joe Manchin D. W.VA is a yes on Sessions (don’t be surprised if he switches parties in the next few years).
Hetkamp would be, in effect, a third yes.
The numbers are really bad for Schumer, and not just for Sessions.
Interesting potential if this placement comes off. It also shrinks the field for a Palin placement, should this ND senator go to the Dept. of Interior.