WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- The Senate Wednesday approved Jim Nicholson as Veterans Secretary and Michael Leavitt to head the Department of Health and Human Resources.
Both were confirmed by voice vote following approval of Condoleeza Rice to serve as Secretary of State during President Bush's second term.
The Environmental Protection Agency administrator during the Bush's first term, Leavitt succeeds outgoing HHS chief Tommy Thompson.
A former U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican and West Point graduate, Nicholson earned the Bronze star and other commendations serving as an Army Ranger and paratrooper in Vietnam.
He succeeds Anthony Principi at the post.
While Rice's nomination was marked by high partisan divisions, neither Leavitt nor Nicholson faced significant Senate opposition.
