WASHINGTON, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- President George Bush Monday appointed John Bolton as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, bypassing Senate confirmation.
The interim appoint would last until the next Congress is seated in January 2007.
This is the first time since 1948 an ambassador has been sent to the United Nations without confirmation.
"This post is too important to leave vacant any longer, especially during a war and a vital debate about U.N. reform," Bush said, adding that Bolton has his "complete confidence."
Bolton said he was humbled by the appointment.
"It will be a distinct privilege to be the advocate for U.S. values at the U.N.," Bolton said.
The Bolton nomination ran into trouble among Senate Democrats because of his management style and outspoken criticism of the United Nations.
"Making this recess appointment is certainly the president's right, but it is not right for America," Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md., said. "Appointing John Bolton to the United Nations sends a terrible message to our intelligence professionals. It is the wrong signal for our intelligence reform efforts."
