Richardson's next job...Pakistani connection?...Generals on torture

CHICAGO (AP) Democratic officials say President-elect Barack Obama plans to name New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson as his choice for commerce secretary Wednesday. Richardson is one of the nation's top Hispanic politicians with a resume that includes energy secretary and U.N. ambassador.

Washington (AP) National Intelligence Director Mike McConnell says the group that carried out last week's attacks in Mumbai is thought to be the one that bombed trains there in 2006. The Indian government blamed a Pakistani terrorist group in the earlier attacks which killed 200 people. Last week's attack killed more than 170 people.

WASHINGTON (AP) A dozen retired generals and admirals will meet with President-elect Barack Obama's transition team Wednesday.

They'll ask for a clean break with Bush administration policies on treatment of detainees that allows the CIA to use extreme measures banned by the military.

NEW YORK (AP) U.S. auto sales have fallen to their worst level in more than 26 years. November sales were down 37 percent, with Chrysler and GM faring the worst.

SINGAPORE (AP) oil prices are up slightly in Asia after hitting a three-year low overnight. Investors are trying to gauge how much the slowing U.S. and Chinese economies will hurt demand for crude.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-02-08 2253CST | save this article / add to your favorites list