Yellen's nomination for Fed chairman backed by 4 Republicans

Four Senate Republicans say they're inclined to support Janet Yellen to be chairman of the US Federal Reserve, leaving her nomination one vote shy of the 60 she needs to be confirmed.

Republicans Tom Coburn of Oklahoma, Susan Collins of Maine, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Orrin Hatch of Utah said yesterday in interviews at the Capitol that they'd probably support Yellen when the nomination comes to the Senate floor, which may occur the week of December 9. The Banking Committee will vote on Thursday on advancing Yellen.