STATEMENTS FROM ATTORNEY GENERAL JOHN ASHCROFT AND ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL R. HEWITT PATE REGARDING THE INTENT TO NOMINATE DEBORAH P. MAJORAS AS FTC CHAIR

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Attorney General John Ashcroft and Assistant Attorney General R. Hewitt Pate, in charge of the Department's Antitrust Division, issued the following statements today after President Bush announced his intention to nominate Deborah P. Majoras as the Chair of the Federal Trade Commission:

ATTORNEY GENERAL ASHCROFT:

"Debbie is an outstanding lawyer and was an exceptional leader at the Department of Justice. Her commitment to enforcing the antitrust laws is exemplary and her dedication to public service is an inspiration to us all. She would be a superb Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission."

ASSISTANT ATTORNEY GENERAL PATE:

"It would be an honor to work with Debbie once again to enforce our nation's antitrust laws. She is a true professional who upholds the highest standards. Her keen intellect and strong organizational skills would make her an excellent choice to lead the Federal Trade Commission. I wish Tim Muris all of the best in his future endeavors. Tim is a true national leader in competition policy and a great protector of American consumers."

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