Outgoing Interior Secretary Gale Norton said she has spoken to President Bush about possible replacements but wouldn't mention names during a speech in Denver, Colorado.

Norton hopes someone from the West will be nominated. "I think it's important to have somebody who really understands what a significant role the Interior Department can play in people's lives here in the West," she was quoted as saying.

Former senator and fellow Coloradan Ben Nighthorse Campbell is being recommended for the job. Other possible picks include Idaho Gov. Dirk Kempthorne (R-Idaho) and Sen. Craig Nelson (R-Wyoming).

Norton is leaving at the end of the month.

Get the Story:
Norton backs a Westerner (The Denver Post 3/16)
Colo.'s Norton mum on plans (AP 3/16)

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