John Bolton says he will leave government service when his temporary appointment as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations runs out in a few weeks. We have details from VOA White House correspondent Paula Wolfson.
Bolton is currently holding the job in what is known as a recess appointment, which runs out when the current congressional session formally adjourns and the new one begins in early January.
President Bush sent him to the U.N. on a temporary basis last year, hoping to use the time to win over enough Senators to get his nomination through the crucial Senate Foreign Relations Committee and on to a formal confirmation vote.
But the opposition never relented, citing Bolton's sometimes confrontational management style. And with the Democrats about to take control of Congress, Bolton felt it was time to step aside.
The president said he accepted the decision with regret.
"You have been a stalwart defender of freedom and peace," said President Bush. "You have been strong in your advocacy for human rights and human dignity."
There is no word yet on a possible replacement for Bolton. White House officials say they have not even begun to interview candidates.