[JURIST] Democratic Sen. Thomas Carper [official website], of Delaware, has placed a hold on the nomination of Stephen Johnson [official profile] as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency [official website]. A spokesman for Carper said Thursday that the senator would exercise his power to block the nomination. All senators have the power to place a hold on a confirmation vote in the Senate. Carper cited the failure of the White House and EPA to respond to a request for data on legislative proposals for regulating emissions from power plants. Johnson, a 24-year EPA veteran, currently is acting administrator of the agency. Carper said he did not oppose Johnson, who he said would make a fine administrator. Instead, he expressed concern [official statement] over White House interference with management of the agency. Carper was the lone senator to oppose Johnson's nomination during a committee vote on Wednesday. AP has more.

Previously on JURIST's Paper Chase...

• Senate committee approves EPA nominee
• EPA nominee faces tough Senate confirmation hearing
• Bush sets new EPA chief to work on 'Clear Skies' bill