Ashcroft's position as a point man in President Bush's war on terrorism has made the former U.S. senator from Missouri a lightning rod for groups concerned his policies have encroached on civil liberties, particularly those of detained or accused Muslim immigrants.
His religious commitments also have irritated others concerned about church-state separation.
His aides said Ashcroft, 62, has been worn down by the job. Earlier this year he had to be hospitalized and his gallbladder removed. He is expected to resign by Thanksgiving.
If Ashcroft, an outspoken evangelical Christian who has held regular prayer meetings for Justice Department staffers does leave, observers believe former Deputy Attorney General Larry Thompson could replace him. If Bush chose Thompson, who left the administration in 2003, he would become the first African-American attorney general.
Another name being floated is that of Alberto Gonzales, White House counsel. If Bush chose Gonzales, he would become the first Latino in that post. Another possibility is former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani.
Other cabinet officers who may leave include Colin Powell, the secretary of state and Donald Rumsfeld the defense secretary.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International
