McClellan Resignation Round-Up, Part I

A few quick posts this morning involving the departre from the White House of everyone’s favorite punching bag. For starters, here’s the transcript from the gaggle:

Q: Can you talk a little bit more about how your resignation came about today? Was this something that you wanted to do, or did you feel pressured?

MR. McCLELLAN: Well, I started thinking about this over — more seriously over the last few weeks. And with the new Chief of Staff coming on board, it was a good time to make this decision. Three years would have been an awfully long time in this position. I’ve been at this for a long time. I didn’t need much encouragement to make this decision, even though you all kept tempting me.

Q: Is it bittersweet? Is your announcement –

MR. McCLELLAN: No, not at all. The President and I had a very good discussion about this earlier this week, and I’m looking forward to a new chapter in my life. I’ve been very honored to be a part of this team, and to serve the President.

Q: What are your plans now?

MR. McCLELLAN: I’m just beginning to think about it. When you’re in this position, you don’t have time to really think about what’s next. This is a position where you really have to focus on the here and now. I’ll be thinking about that, but I also am going to remain fully focused on the job for the remainder of the time that I am here at the White House. I expect to be here for another two to three weeks; the process of — I want to be helpful in the process of finding a new press secretary.

Q: How is that process going? Is there a short list? Do you expect it to be fast?

MR. McCLELLAN: I’m not going to get into speculating about it. But I’ll certainly be helpful in the transition and helpful in identifying someone who will serve the President well.

Q: Do you know what they might be looking for in particular in a new press secretary? Is there anything specific?

MR. McCLELLAN: I think that we’ll have more to say once that person is ready to be named.

Q: When did you go and tell the President you were planning to resign?

MR. McCLELLAN: Earlier this week.

Q: Can you give us a date?

MR. McCLELLAN: Yes, Monday I talked to him.

Q: In the Oval Office?

MR. McCLELLAN: Yes, in the Oval Office. We had a very good conversation.

Q: What did you say?

MR. McCLELLAN: I’ll leave it a private conversation.

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