President Obama is asking Congress to pass legislation that would extend the 10-year term of Robert S. Mueller III, the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, by two years, the White House said in a statement Thursday. Mr. Mueller’s tenure is scheduled to end on Sept. 4.

Mr. Mueller, who took office a week before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, has overseen the transformation of the F.B.I. from an agency dedicated to criminal investigations to one that is a major player in the nation’s global antiterrorism effort.

“In his 10 years at the F.B.I., Bob Mueller has set the gold standard for leading the bureau,” Mr. Obama said in the statement. “Given the ongoing threats facing the United States, as well as the leadership transitions at other agencies like the Defense Department and Central Intelligence Agency, I believe continuity and stability at the F.B.I. is critical at this time.”

While it is unclear how Congress will respond, Mr. Mueller enjoys widespread bipartisan support on Capitol Hill and Mr. Obama’s request is likely to get deference. The announcement comes after Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. have been conducting a high-level search for a replacement. F.B.I. directors are limited by law to a single 10-year term, and Mr. Mueller has been traveling globally on what has been characterized as his farewell tour.

(Source: NY Times)