Fran Townsend, the leading White House-based terrorism advisor who gave public updates on the extent of the threat to U.S. security, is stepping down after 4-1/2 years.
Her departure continues an exodus of key Bush aides and confidants, with his two-term presidency in the final 15 months. Top aide Karl Rove, along with press secretary Tony Snow and senior presidential advisor Dan Bartlett, left earlier this year.
Bush in his statement early today noted that Townsend had served in the position for more than 4-1/2 years.
“Fran always has provided wise counsel on how best to protect the American people from the threat of terrorism,” the president said. “She has been a steady leader in the effort to prevent and disrupt attacks and to better respond to natural disasters.”
In her resignation to Bush, Townsend indicated she was ready to take a break from public service and return to the private sector.
