White House chief of staff Andy Card has resigned and will be replaced by budget director Joshua Bolten, President Bush announced Tuesday amid growing calls for a White House shakeup and Republican concern about Bush's tumbling poll ratings.Bush announced the changes in a nationally broadcast appearance in the Oval Office.
"I have relied on Andy's wise counsel, his calm in crisis, his absolute integrity and his tireless commitment to public service," Bush said. "The next three years will demand much of those who serve our country. We have a global war to fight and win."
PowerLine is not moved by the "shake-up," as folks are calling it.
Patrick Hynes has heard that he's leaving to work with a certain fellow Massachusetts resident with presidential aspirations:
Rather, I have been told by Washington insiders that Card is leaving to play a significant role in the presidential campaign of Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney. This announcement will not be made for several months; perhaps not until after the 2006 election, but many of Card's associates have already been working for Romney behind the scenes.
Others are speculating about a run for the Massachusetts governorship or a Senate seat. Watch out, Teddy.