WASHINGTON, D.C. — Attorney General Janet Reno issued the following statement today after President Clinton announced his nomination of Michael K. Powell, current Chief of Staff in the Department's Antitrust Division, as a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission:

"Mike's organizational skills and leadership have made a difference. He will be sorely missed at the Department, but I am delighted that he will continue his outstanding career in public service."

Joel I. Klein, Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division, issued the following statement:

"I have known Mike ever since he was one of my law students, and I find him to be a man of unimpeachable integrity, wide- ranging talent and remarkably mature judgment. While it pains me personally to see him move to the FCC, I am comforted in the fact that his talent will be brought to bear on the most important communications and telecommunications issues facing our nation."

Powell has served as the Antitrust Division's Chief of Staff since December 1996. His responsibilities include advising the Assistant Attorney General on substantive antitrust matters, such as criminal and civil investigations and mergers. He is the senior management officer overseeing the Division's budget, training, personnel, and a wide variety of other administrative activities.

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