Bill Richardson was President Obama’s original nominee to serve as secretary of Commerce, but the New Mexico governor withdrew because of a federal probe of campaign contributions in his state. A grand jury is investigating how a California firm that contributed to his political activities won a lucrative government contract. Richardson served the Clinton administration as Energy secretary. (Charles Dharapak / Associated Press)
Nancy Killefer withdrew her name after being nominated to serve the Obama administration in the newly created position of chief performance officer. She acknowledged neglecting to pay some taxes on household help. In all, four officials have been forced to withdraw from Obama’s team of senior advisors, two for tax problems. (Lawrence Jackson / Associated Press)
