Michael Mukasey Leading Candidate for AG, Paper Says

ABC News’ Tahman Bradley Reports: The Weekly Standard is reporting that retired federal judge Michael Mukasey is the leading candidate to replace Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and that President Bush’s announcement could come as soon as Monday. LINK

Former Solicitor General Ted Olsen and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff are among the other names believe to be in the mix. It could be a highly contentious nomination process should President Bush choose either man. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid came out against Olsen in a written statement last week saying he intended to do everything he could to prevent Olsen from being confirmed. Prominent Democratic senators, including Judiciary Committee member and presidential hopeful Sen. Joe Biden D-Del., have said they would oppose Chertoff.

Sen. Orrin Hatch R-Utah has reportedly discussed the prospects of becoming Attorney General with the White House, but he contends the move is unlikely.

Mukasey was appointed as a federal judge in 1988 by Ronald Reagan. He served for 18 years.