Nomination of Ambassador to Soviet Union

President Bush announced the nomination of Robert S. Strauss for Ambassador to the Soviet Union in the White House Rose Garden. Mr. Strauss is a Democrat, a close friend of President Bush, and an attorney dealing in politics and business. He is not a career diplomat nor a military officer, and is the second ambassador to the Soviet Union since World War II not to be in one of those two professions. The president thanked Mr. Strauss and his wife for accepting the nomination of Ambassador, and expressed his confidence in Mr. Strauss' abilities. Mr. Strauss stated that the appointment was clearly not a political one, and thanked the president for the opportunity. His remarks were followed by Secretary of State Baker, who called the appointment “a big plus” for America. Mr. Strauss responded to questions from reporters, but refused to answer substantive questions until after his confirmation. close