A high school dropout who rose in rank to become New York City's police commissioner will be announced as the next Homeland Security Secretary today, according to news reports.

Bernard B. Kerik, 49, will appear at a news conference with President Bush today. He replaces former governor Tom Ridge, who just announced his resignation.

Kerik was head of police during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and helped set up security in Iraq last year. But his lack of Washington experience concerned some Republicans, according to news reports.

In other Cabinet news, Bush nominated Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns (R) as Agriculture Secretary. Bush passed over defeated U.S. House candidate Larry Diedrich, who wanted the job but could be picked for another Ag post.

Also, Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson is expected to announce his resignation soon. He could be replaced by Mark B. McClellan, administrator of the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Get the Story:
Ex-NYPD Official To Succeed Ridge (The Washington Post 12/3)
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Bush Set to Name Ex-Chief of Police for Top Security Post (The New York Times 12/3)
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A Street Cop's Rise From High School Dropout to Cabinet Nominee (The New York Times 12/3)
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Bush names Johanns ag secretary (The Lincoln Journal Star 12/3)
Johanns' appointment received well by S.D. politicians and ag officials (AP 12/3)

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