Cohen is the only Republican in President Clinton's Cabinet. He represents the bipartisanship Clinton pledged to seek upon winning reelection and reaffirmed in his inaugural address on Monday.

"In so doing, the Senate sent a strong signal of its intention to work in a constructive and bipartisan spirit to preserve and enhance our national security. Bill Cohen is the embodiment of that spirit," Clinton said.

Cohen, a Unitarian who was raised a Jew, represented the state of Maine in the House for six years and the Senate for 18 before giving up his seat last November.