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On Dec. 11, President Bush designated Kirk Van Tine as acting deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), enabling him to begin serving in the position even though the Senate hasn't confirmed his nomination. Van Tine succeeds Michael Jackson, who resigned from USDOT in August.

Van Tine served as general counsel for USDOT until he resigned in October, following his nomination. He previously served as a partner in law firm Baker Botts, where he headed the firm’s Washington, D.C., litigation group.

"[The designation] provides the administration and the American people the opportunity to once again realize the full potential of Kirk’s capabilities as he embarks upon this new leadership role," said Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta in a prepared statement. "I look forward to working with the Senate to achieve his full confirmation when senators return to Washington next year."