WASHINGTON-Susan Ness, the most senior member of the Federal Communications Commission, is planning on leaving the agency before the end of her recess appointment; her aid confirmed last week.
Rumors about Ness’ future began circulating after her fellow commissioner, Harold Furchtgott-Roth, announced he would not seek re-nomination.
Ness’ term expired last fall but former President Bill Clinton gave her a recess appointment that allows her to stay until Congress completes its work this year.
By making her intentions known, Ness opens up the way for the Bush administration to send up a package of names – two Republicans and one Democrat – to be considered. This usually makes it easier for Senate confirmation.
