Bernard Kerik apologized to President Bush on Saturday after questions about the immigration status of a housekeeper-nanny he employed led the former New York City police commissioner to withdraw his nomination as homeland security chief.

"WASHINGTON (AP) - The White House says President Bush's choice to be secretary of homeland security -- Bernard Kerik -- has withdrawn his name from consideration.

In a conference call to news organizations, White House spokesman Scott McClellan revealed that Kerik had withdrawn 'for personal reasons.'

McClellan said in a statement that the president respects Kerik's decision and wishes the commissioner and his wife well.

Kerik was the New York City police commissioner during 9-11.

McClellan said the White House will move as quickly as it can to name someone else to fill the nomination."

¶
- david | 3:54 PM