Bush: Johanns would be outstanding senator

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- President George Bush Thursday accepted the resignation of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, saying he would be "an outstanding member" of the U.S. Senate.

Johanns, a former Republican Nebraska governor, submitted his resignation Wednesday. But before he resigned from the cabinet post, Johanns sought Bush's advice, the president said.

"And during the discussion he told me he was interested in continuing to serve America, but in a different role. And I asked him if this was something he was seriously considering," Bush said to reporters in the Rose Garden.

Bush said he told Johanns, "I support you, and I encourage you to follow your heart. If it's Mike's decision and Nebraska's choice, he would make an outstanding member of the United States Senate. There is no doubt in my mind."

CNN reported two Republican sources said Johanns was resigning to consider a senatorial run.

Deputy Agriculture Secretary Chuck Connor will serve as Acting Secretary.