US President-Elect Nominates Powell as Secretary of State

US President-Elect Nominates Powell as Secretary of State

---

US President-elect George W. Bush named retired General Colin Powell as secretary of state Saturday, bringing one of America's most admired figures back into public life.

"General Powell is an American hero, an American example and a great American story," Bush said when announcing the first appointment of his Cabinet at a school in Crawford, Texas State.

Powell, known internationally after overseeing the US military during the Gulf War and serving as national security adviser to President Ronald Reagan, will be the first black to run the State Department, the most senior Cabinet position and the nation's top diplomatic post.

Bush, who takes office on January 20, claimed the US presidency on Wednesday night after a gracious concession by Gore. His victory was sealed Tuesday night by the US Supreme Court which blocked any chance of further ballot recounts in Florida State.