Another read, from a readeR:

K-Lo:
This is a serious slap to Nelson. The administration’s going to use this opportunity to strengthen Johanns’ image before his eventual run against Nelson — just like they did for Mel Martinez, Mitch Daniels et. al.
This is no small thing. Even though Nebraska is an overwhelmingly republican state, we seem to elect democrats quite often. Think Bob Kerrey, Jim Exon, and Ben Nelson. And even though Nelson’s a Democrat, Johann’s would be fighting an uphill battle trying to defeat him. That is until now. Advantage Johanns.