Voinovich opposed Bolton, now concerned about his resignation

Ohio Sen. George Voinovich made a big to-do about the nomination of U.N. Ambassador John Bolton last year. His unexpected - and firm - opposition to Bolton in the Foreign Relations Committee nearly derailed the nomination altogether.

President Bush appointed Bolton during a congressional recess, thereby bypassing the confirmation process until this year. In the meantime, Voinovich did an about face and announced earlier this year that he would be supporting Bolton's nomination this time around.

Now, Voinovich is lamending Bolton's resignation, which comes as Democrats are about to take control of the Senate, dooming Bolton's chances at confirmation. Here's what the Cleveland Republican had to say:

“I am very disappointed that John Bolton will not continue in his role as ambassador to the United Nations. Given the fragile nature of the world situation, and the critical task of reforming the U.N., he should have been given an up-or-down vote on the Senate floor.

“John Bolton has risen to the occasion and done a good job under the harshest of circumstances. I’m extremely concerned with him leaving since he’s been so deeply involved with the situations in Iran, Syria, Lebanon and North Korea and has been working in concert with fellow ambassadors toward true U.N. reform.

“I will work with the administration to help ensure we move forward rapidly to fill the void with someone of the utmost capability. I’m prayerful John’s team will stay in place so there will be a speedy passing of the baton to the new ambassador. And I will work with the deputy representative so that the transition will be as seamless as possible.”