Swift Boat Ambassador

After withdrawing his nomination in the face of Congressional opposition, President Bush has used a recess appointment to make Sam Fox U.S. Ambassador to Belgium. At issue is Fox's ties to Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, the Republican front group that during the 2004 presidential election attacked Senator John Kerry's military service and patriotism. Fox is reported to have given $50,000 to the group. In addition, Fox was one of "Bush's Rangers," which requires raising a minimum of $200,000. He has also donated millions of dollars to GOP candidates over the years. Senator and Presidential candidate Chris Dodd (D-CT) said he plans to ask the Government Accountability Office, Congress' nonpartisan research arm, for an opinion on the legality of the appointment.