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A Scientist and a Comedian Walk Into a Confirmation Hearing…

Naomi Moniz, center, wife of Energy Secretary nominee Ernest Moniz, right, acknowledges her husband as she is introduced at his confirmation hearing Tuesday before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. At left is former Senator Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico, a former chairman of the committee who introduced Dr. Moniz.Manuel Balce Ceneta/Associated Press Naomi Moniz, center, wife of Energy Secretary nominee Ernest Moniz, right, acknowledges her husband as she is introduced at his confirmation hearing Tuesday before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. At left is former Senator Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico, a former chairman of the committee who introduced Dr. Moniz.

Here’s what happens when a scientist goes through the Washington version of social niceties.

As is customary with cabinet nominees, Ernest J. Moniz, President Obama’s choice to be energy secretary, came to his confirmation hearing on Tuesday with his spouse â€" in this case, Naomi Moniz, whom he introduced as “my wife of 29.83 years.”

This met with general amusement. But about two hours into the hearing, when it was the turn of Senator Al Franken, Democrat of Minnesota, to ask questions, Mr. Franken asked if that meant the Monizes’ anniversary was June 10.

“I remind you, you’re under oath,” said Mr. Franken, a former professional comedian.

“June 9,” the nominee replied. “That’s the rounding error.”