WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has named James Comey to be the new FBI director. Comey was the No. 2 Justice Department official under Republican President George W. Bush.
Obama says Comey is a model of "fierce independence and deep integrity."
Comey gained attention for blocking efforts by the Bush White House to reauthorize a no-warrant wiretapping program in 2004.
If confirmed by the Senate, he would replace Robert Mueller and serve a 10-year tenure.
Obama says Mueller displayed a "steady hand and strong leadership" during his time at the head of the FBI.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.