WASHINGTON (AP) — Fox News is reporting that conservative commentator and former White House press secretary Tony Snow has died of cancer.

Snow, 53, was a broadcaster for Fox News Channel and Fox News Radio when he replaced Scott McClellan as President Bush's press secretary in May 2006.

Snow served just 17 months as press secretary, a tenure interrupted by his second bout with cancer. He resigned as Bush's chief spokesman six months later, in September 2007, citing a need to earn more money. He then joined CNN as a commentator.

Snow brought partisan zeal and the skills of a seasoned performer to the task of explaining and defending the president's policies. He was popular at the White House and beyond for cheerfully sparring with reporters.