CNN reports that Daschle withdraws as HHS nominee:
Former Sen. Tom Daschle has withdrawn his nomination to head the Department of Health and Human Services. Daschle had been fighting to save his nomination after controversy over his tax records and questions about his work in a field that some consider lobbying.
. . . New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson also withdrew his nomination to be commerce secretary, citing the distraction of a federal investigation into ties to a company that has done business with his state.
Given Obama’s pledge for “unprecedented transparency, rigorous oversight and clear accountability,” some said the controversy surrounding Obama’s appointments are calling into question the president’s vetting process.
Daschle withdrew his name on the same day that Nancy Killefer, another Obama appointee plagued by failure to pay taxes has withdrawn her name as Chief White House Performance Officer.
In better news, yesterday Eric Holder was sworn in as Attorney General after being confirmed by the Senate yesterday 75-21.
