Former Senator Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) has withdrawn his name from consideration for Secretary of the Department of Health & Human Services.
In a statement released by the White House, Daschle states, “. . . [healthcare reform] will require a leader who can operate with the full faith of Congress and the American people, and without distraction. Right now, I am not that leader, and will not be a distraction.”
In a separate statement, President Obama commended Daschle’s dedication to public service and to healthcare reform. Noting that reform is “essential to the progress of our economy and the well-being of businesses and families across our nation,” the President accepted Daschle’s decision “with sadness and regret.”
Read the statements of President Obama and former Senator Daschle.
