WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senior administration officials tell The Associated Press that President Barack Obama will use a recess appointment to name Richard Cordray as the nation's chief consumer watchdog despite strong Republican opposition.
With a director in place, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will be able to start overseeing the type of financial companies often blamed for practices that helped send the economy into a downward spiral.
Obama's end run around the Senate is likely to cause an uproar among Republicans in Congress.
The White House contends the Senate's "pro forma" legislative sessions are a gimmick and therefore Obama has the power to make the short-term appointment. Cordray would serve for at least the next two years.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity ahead of Obama's planned announcement in Ohio later Wednesday.
