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McClellan Resigns
White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan, a longtime aide to President Bush, today announced his resignation.
“The White House is going through a period of transition. Change can be helpful. And this is a good time and good position to help bring about change,” McClellan said at the White House with Bush at his side.
In another change, Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove will be dropping his policy responsibilities and concentrating on politics as the crucial mid-term elections approach.
No date was announced for the McClellan’s departure after two years as Bush’s top spokesman. No replacement was immediately announced.
The change will come as the White House, under new Chief of Staff Josh Bolten, moves to reshape an administration plagued by persistently low approval ratings.
“I have given it my all, sir, and I have given you my all,” McClellan told Bush.
McClellan has worked for Bush for more than seven years.
The president said McClellan “handled his assignment with class, integrity.”
“It’s going to be hard to replace Scott,” Bush said. “But nevertheless, he’s made the decision and I accept it.”
There was no immediate word on whether the decision was totally voluntary.
Bush and McClellan appeared together outside the White House as they headed to the Marine One helicopter for a trip to Alabama. The helicopter never got off the ground, falling victim to radio problems, according to Deputy Chief of Staff Joe Hagin.
“I tried to leave,” McClellan joked as he got off the helicopter to await the motorcade to Andrews Air Force Base for the flight to Alabama.
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