Wolfowitz was forced to announce his resignation after word came he had approved a pay raise and promotion for a woman with whom he had an intimate relationship.

During a flight to Georgia where U.S. President George Bush was to inspect damage from wildfires, Snow told the daily press briefing that the president is close to choosing Wolfowitz' replacement.

Though Snow said he does not expect an announcement Tuesday, he indicated one was "likely" to come later this week.