Energy Secretary Abraham Plans to Resign

WASHINGTON - Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham told President Bush that he plans to resign but will stay on until a successor is in place, Reuters reports.

Reuters reports Abraham informed Bush last week of his decision and told top staff Monday. A White House announcement was expected Monday, the official said.

Ddeputy energy secretary Kyle McSlarrow is considered as a possible replacement for Abraham. He already runs the day-to-day operations of the department and is liked by lawmakers and Capitol Hill staff.

Another possible candidate was Tom Kuhn, president of the Edison Electric Institute trade group, Reuters says.

Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman also submitted her resignation, Reuters reports.