President Bush's choice to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nations is facing tough questions at his confirmation hearing.
Testifying today (Monday) before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, John Bolton pledged to work with other countries to make the United Nations stronger and more effective.
But Senate Democrats criticized the nominee for his statements dismissing the world body as irrelevant and illegitimate.
Several senators asked about an incident in which Mr. Bolton pressured two U.S. intelligence analysts who challenged his assertion that Cuba had banned weapons. The nominee admitted today that he tried to have the men moved to other jobs.
Republicans, who control the Senate, argue that Mr. Bolton will be a strong voice for U.N. reform.
Mr. Bolton is currently undersecretary of state for arms control. The hearing on his nomination continues Tuesday.