Several U.S. lawmakers have expressed concern about the possible nomination of Air Force General Michael Hayden to become the next director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

Senior Bush administration officials have said General Hayden may be named to replace Porter Goss, who announced his resignation on Friday.

But Republican Congressman Pete Hoekstra said a military official should not be in charge of the CIA because it is a civilian agency. He told Fox News Sunday that the appointment of General Hayden could raise tensions between the CIA and defense officials.

Senators Diane Feinstein, a Democrat, and Saxby Chambliss, a Republican, also expressed concern over placing a military official in charge of the CIA.

But Republican Senator John McCain told CBS television that he hopes that, if nominated, General Hayden would be confirmed quickly in congressional hearings.