Washington — Blocked for nearly five months by Democratic lawmakers, President Bush on Monday used his power to bypass the confirmation process and name John R. Bolton as ambassador to the United Nations. Within hours, the blunt-spoken diplomat took the oath of office in Washington and headed for New York, where he ended the day on the job.
Bush invoked his constitutional authority to fill an open job while Congress was in recess, instead of trying to resolve a deadlock with senators who had called Bolton unfit for the job; the Democrats had been using a parliamentary maneuver, the filibuster, to block a vote on his confirmation. Under a recess appointment, Bolton can serve until the end of the next Senate session.
Bush's decision to appoint Bolton, 56, without a confirmation vote was denounced by Democrats, who predicted it would undermine the diplomat's credibility at the United Nations and create more partisan rancor on Capitol Hill. Bolton's sharp tongue and direct style have alienated some subordinates, but enchanted many conservatives.
"At a time when we need to reassert our diplomatic power in the world, President Bush has decided to send a seriously flawed and weakened candidate to the United Nations," said Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid of Nevada. On Sunday, Sen. Christopher J. Dodd, D-Conn., called Bolton "damaged goods."
President Bush stands with John Bolton, left, as he announces Bolton's installation as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Bush sidestepped the Senate and installed Bolton with a recess appointment.
The White House said Bush decided over the weekend to proceed with a recess appointment; the Senate completed action on a raft of legislation late Friday and suspended operations for a five-week summer break. The president is leaving Washington today for his own August vacation at his Texas ranch.
Bush's critics have questioned Bolton's appropriateness for the job, expressing concern about his caustic criticism of the United Nations and allegations that he tried to intimidate intelligence analysts who disagreed with him.
Bolton's backers argue that the tough-talking diplomat is exactly the kind of person needed to make the case for U.N. reform as the world body struggles to respond to allegations of ineffectiveness, mismanagement and corruption.
"Sometimes a blunt style is needed in order to get things done," White House press secretary Scott McClellan told reporters.
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