WASHINGTON  – President Barack Obama’s pick to become U.S. ambassador to Iraq is meeting with Republican senators, who are divided over his nomination.

Sen. Richard Lugar, the top Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee, was expected to issue a statement in support of Christopher Hill. At the same time, Sen. Jon Kyl, the second-ranking Republican in the Senate, has signed onto a letter asking Obama to reconsider his choice.

The Republican pushback makes it difficult for Hill, who would have to be confirmed by 60 votes to overcome procedural hurdles. But Lugar’s support is significant because it could provide other GOP moderates with political cover to support Hill.