Posted on 06/14/2006 4:37:35 PM PDT by notes2005
Michael J. Gerson, one of President Bush's most trusted advisers and author of nearly all of his most famous public words during the past seven years, plans to step down in the next couple weeks in a decision that colleagues believe will leave a huge hole in the White House at a critical period.
Gerson said in an interview that he has been talking with Bush for many months about leaving for writing and other opportunities but waited until the White House political situation had stabilized somewhat. "It seemed like a good time," he said. "Things are back on track a little. Some of the things I care about are on a good trajectory."
Since first joining the presidential campaign in 1999, Gerson has evolved into one of the most central players in Bush's inner circle, often considered among the three or four aides closest to the president. He has been called one of the best speechwriters of his age, the conscience of the White House and the embodiment of Bush's vision of "compassionate conservatism."
Beyond shaping the language of the Bush presidency, Gerson shaped much of its policy as well. He was one of the architects of the Bush doctrine making the spread of democracy the fundamental goal of U.S. foreign policy. He led a personal crusade within the administration to make unprecedented multibillion-dollar investments in fighting AIDS, malaria and poverty around the globe. He became one of the lone voices pressing for more action to stop the genocide in Darfur.
(Excerpt) Read more at washingtonpost.com ...
Ann Coulter...Ann Coulter...WHERE have I heard that name before???
Wouldn't THAT be a HOOT!!
G
That's probably what Mike Gerson is saying in private...
All I can say is: Thanks for your service.
Certainly don't blame the guy for wanting to do something else.
For those with short memories, Mr. Gerson wrote the "Angel in the Whirlwind" Inaugural Address, and the Address to the Nation at the National Cathedral after September 11, 2001. He is a fine writer, and I am grateful for his service.
Didn't Tony Snow write for George HW Bush? Maybe Tony taking over the Press Secretary's position has something to do with this. If he wrote for Papa Bush, he could probably do it for Dubya too.
On that we do agree. He is an excellent writer...one of the finest in America today.
The sky is falling! (Again)
I'm down with having someone else write Bush's words. I just wish he'd get someone to pronounce and deliver them for him. He has to be the least articulate president in history.
AMEN!! Those were GREAT speeches!!
Go read one of Clinton's off the cuff speeches!!! UNREADABLE!! They are awful.
Articulate? I think the man is extremely articulate. You are just jumping on that petty nonsense.
Maybe you mean pompousness is what you miss. Elaborate politicese to impress those thrilled with words.
I am more thrilled with what the man says, the sincerity, the passion and steadfastness shown.
You can take all of your "articulate" speakers. A plain spoken man who cares not about superficial poofery is what I want.
Ever try to read anything John Kerry has said?
Long way around saying absolutely nothing.
I'll take an average guy anytime.
Maybe it will accurately reflect their hysteria and headlines...
But, actually, his speeches haven't been the same since the last Gergen wrote for his Inaugural. Given some of his policy preferences, leaving this job I don't find too disturbing. The job, imo, a void still exists was his previous before the promotion.
He's good at imagery, at crafting words to connect with an audience and take them to the heart of the theme of the speech.
The administration replaced Scott with Tony. I think that was an overdue needed move. I wouldn't mind if they did an upgrade over the current speech writer as well.
I will be personally forever grateful to him for this alone as the words spoken so heartfelt by the President began a healing along with resolution to make it right. Thank you Mr. Gerson and Godspeed.
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