http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070511/ap_on_go_pr_wh/ambassador_swift_boatEx-ambassadors seek removal of appointee
By SAM HANANEL, Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON - A group of former U.S. ambassadors asked President Bush to remove the U.S. ambassador to Belgium on grounds the recess appointment of Republican donor Sam Fox undermines diplomatic posts worldwide.
The White House was forced to withdraw Fox's nomination in March after Senate Democrats indicated they would block it. A week later, Bush appointed Fox, a Missouri businessman, while Congress was in recess.
"Appointing an ambassador after the nomination has been withdrawn, and before the
Senate Foreign Relations Committee has even considered the nominee, essentially renders the Senate's confirmation process irrelevant," seven former diplomats wrote in a letter to Bush dated May 8.
"This has the potential to undermine the legitimacy of those who serve in these vital posts all around the world," the letter said.
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