President Barack Obama will nominate James B. Comey, a former Bush administration official, as the new director of the FBI, according to news reports.

Comey, who served as the second highest-ranking official at the Department of Justice from 2003 to 2005, became notable for refusing to reauthorize a warrantless domestic eavesdropping program. He objected when White House officials tried to secure approval from then-attorney general John Ashcroft, who was in the hospital recovering from surgery at the time.

If nominated and confirmed, Comey would replace Robert Mueller, who has served as FBI director since 2001. By law, Mueller's term expires in September, The New York Times reported.

The FBI investigates crime in Indian Country. The agency has 100 special agents assigned to more than 200 reservations.

Get the Story:
Comey in line to become FBI director, officials say (The Washington Post 5/30)
Former Bush Official Said to Be Obama Pick to Lead F.B.I. (The New York Times 5/30)