Bush nominates new US Attorney-General

Mr Bush picked 66-year-old Michael Mukasey, who drew quick praise from both Democrats and Republicans, likely avoiding a bruising confirmation battle on Capitol Hill.

"Judge Mukasey is clear eyed about the threat our nation faces," Mr Bush said.

"It's vital that the position of Attorney-General be filled quickly, I urge the Senate to confirm Judge Mukasey promptly."

Mr Mukasey would replace Alberto Gonzales, who resigned last month after he became embroiled in controversy over the firings of nine federal prosecutors.

Mr Gonzales was also criticised for implementing Mr Bush's war on terrorism policies that some said impinged on civil liberties in the United States.

Mr Mukasey, an authority on national security issues, emerged as Mr Bush's choice after Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid said he would block another potential top nominee, former US Solicitor General Theodore Olson, as too partisan.

Democratic Senator Charles Schumer, who led the drive to force Mr Gonzales out, said Mr Mukasey had the potential to become a consensus nominee.

"While he is certainly conservative, Judge Mukasey seems to be the kind of nominee who would put rule of law first and show independence from the White House," he said.

"For sure, we'd want to ascertain his approach on such important and sensitive issues as wiretapping and the appointment of US attorneys but he is a lot better than some of the other names mentioned."

While on the federal bench in New York for nearly two decades, Mr Mukasey presided over a number of high-profile cases, including one in which a dozen people were tied to the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Centre. - VOA News