Retired general James Jones, President Obama’s national security adviser, is resigning today. Although he was rumored to be leaving by the end of the year anyway, the administration was reportedly none too pleased with some of his comments in Bob Woodward’s Obama’s Wars. According to a Times summary of James’s gripes from the book:
Gen. James L. Jones, national security adviser: Resented the president’s political aides including Rahm Emanuel, chief of staff; David Axelrod, senior adviser; Robert Gibbs, press secretary; and Denis McDonough and Mark Lippert, National Security Council officials. Called them “the water bugs,” “the Politburo,” the “Mafia” or “the campaign set.” At one point, almost threatened to quit when he was denied access to the president. Ultimately pressured Mr. Lippert to leave.
James also wasn’t too keen on Thomas Donilon, the deputy national security adviser, who is now taking over for James. Neither was Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who, according to Woodward, said Donilon would be a “disaster” as NSA. But we’re sure Gates will come around.
Donilon to Replace Jones as National Security Adviser [Caucus/NYT]
Tom Donilon Would Be A ‘Disaster’ As National Security Adviser, Robert Gates Reportedly Said [HuffPo]
James also wasn’t too keen on Thomas Donilon, the deputy national security adviser, who is now taking over for James. Neither was Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who, according to Woodward, said Donilon would be a “disaster” as NSA. But we’re sure Gates will come around.
Donilon to Replace Jones as National Security Adviser [Caucus/NYT]
Tom Donilon Would Be A ‘Disaster’ As National Security Adviser, Robert Gates Reportedly Said [HuffPo]
