The chairman of the U.S. government board that oversees the Voice of America and other international broadcasting has asked President Bush not to renominate him for another term.
Broadcasting Board of Governors Chairman Kenneth Tomlinson made the request Tuesday in a letter to Mr. Bush. Last year, a U.S. Senate committee said it would not act to confirm Tomlinson for another term.
Tomlinson said in his letter he is proud of his record of service and he appreciates that the president has repeatedly submitted his name to the Senate for reconfirmation. He said he has decided it would be more constructive to write a book on his experiences rather than continue to seek government service.
The letter says Tomlinson will continue as chairman of the BBG until a successor is confirmed.
Tomlinson has been BBG chairman since 2002. Last year, a State Department investigation found he had used his government office for personal business and improperly awarded a contract to a friend. Tomlinson's letter to the president said those who oppose his nomination cite charges that do not stand up to scrutiny.
Tomlinson resigned from another position, as chairman of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, in 2005 after a separate inquiry found he violated rules meant to insulate public radio and television from political interference. The corporation helps fund public television and radio in the United States. Tomlinson is a Republican with close ties to the White House.