Josh Rogin of The Cable had an exclusive yesterday on Jide Zeitlin, President Obama’s nominee as US Representative to the United Nations for U.N. Management and Reform with the rank of Ambassador (Controversial Obama U.N. nominee withdraws for "personal reasons," official says | The Cable | December 29, 2009).
The report cites Zeitlin’s trouble in India (the case was settled between IMIL and Shatakshi Contractors, according to settlement documents obtained by The Cable) and his earlier legal problem with American Tower. Also this:
"But concerns about his nomination grew as rumors swirled around Washington and New York that Zeitlin was engaged in other activities that called into question his overall character and also may have included elements of identity fraud.Specifically, one woman contacted several government offices and multiple news outlets, including The Cable, with allegations that Zeitlin had used deception to lure her into what eventually she claims was a romantic relationship. Those allegations could not be independently confirmed by The Cable. The administration official declined to comment as to whether they had been investigated as part of Zeitlin's vetting process or afterwards. In his letter, Zeitlin said his withdrawal was due to "personal reasons," the administration official said."
We have not seen the official statement of withdrawal sent to the Senate yet, but folks are on a holiday break. And -- Josh’s report includes a blurb from White House spokesman Tommy Vietor when contacted about the story -- "We appreciate his willingness to serve and wish him the best of luck in the future."
Related Posts:
- SFRC Clears USAID and State Dept Nominees | Dec 09, 2009
- Obama's UN-Mgt Reform Nominee's Troubles | Nov 12, 2009
- SFRC Hearings: Zeitlin, Arvanat, Barton, Yohannes, Lomellin ... | Nov 04, 2009
- Officially In: Jide Zeitlin to UN Mgt and Reform | Sep 16, 2009
