Bush begins overhaul of economic team

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush began overhauling his economic team from outside Monday with the appointment of Carlos Gutierrez as commerce secretary.

Bush named the Cuban refugee who was the head of the Kellogg Co., to replace Donald Evans, who resigned along with chief economic adviser Stephen Friedman.

Bush aides told the Washington Post only budget director Joshua Bolten is likely to remain, meaning at least four positions would see new faces, including the secretaries of Treasury and Commerce.

One senior administration official told the newspaper Treasury Secretary John Snow can stay as long as he wants, provided it is not very long. Friends say Chief of Staff Andrew Card could replace him.

But Republican officials said Bush is also considering well-known Republicans from outside, including New York Gov. George E. Pataki, while conservatives are pushing for former Sen. Phil Gramm of Texas.

Beginning his second term, Bush is expected to send to Capitol Hill measures to restrict medical malpractice claims and other lawsuits. He will then try to advance his initiative on Social Security, after which will come proposed changes in the tax laws.