PoliPundit notes that Bernard Kerik has withdrawn his name from consideration as director of Homeland Security:

His friend and lawyer, Joe Tacopina, said that the reason was a discovery Kerik made when reviewing matters in preparation for his upcoming Senate confirmation relating to a nanny and whether proper social security and other taxes were paid properly. He said that Kerik had discovered the issue with the nanny himself, rather than a reporter finding it. Tacopina said that he was extremely disappointed that Kerik did not stay in and fight for the job, which he considers him to be the best person in the world for it, over such a minor matter. He said that Kerik did not want the attention of the President and those at the Department of Homeland Security diverted by what would be a political firestorm over the matter.

If the “nanny” problem is the only reason, it seems to me that it is a terrible loss for the country. I don’t think it was discussed on Scarborough Country, but I suspect that since immigration is so important to homeland security, that the issues relating to a nanny problem, if the nanny was an immigrant without proper social security or other papers, might have played into the decision. This is purely speculation on my part. I am sure we will hear the specifics soon enough. I really hope this doesn’t start another spate of qualified people not being considered due to “nanny” problems. The last time that happened the country ended up with Janet Reno. Yikes!

In other words, it's an orchestrated way for Kerik to save face in light of much bigger problems that would either block his nomination or embarrass the administration--or both.

Update: In a surprising move, his replacement has already been nominated. Seems like a very logical choice for the job, actually...

Another Update: Mickey Kaus has a similar take on The Nanny Excuse.