Washington, D.C.
White House spokesman Ari Fleischer announced this week that he would resign in the summer, probably in July. Fleischer, 42, was married six months ago, and he told friends he was leaving government to lead “a quieter life.” One aide said Fleischer was beginning to get burned out by the marathon workdays of the White House. “It’s not an easy job, and he is beginning to feel it,” the aide said. Colleagues expected Fleischer to enter private business, possibly including a tour on the lecture circuit. Fleischer said President Bush kissed his bald pate when he heard the news. “I love this job,” he told reporters, but “my heart tells me it’s time to go.”
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