BernieHund: The Political Watchdog

Following the departure of such notables as Karl Rove and Scott McClellan, to name a couple of departees, Joe Hagin has announced that he is leaving the White House staff to take a corporate position.

Since the days of the first campaign Joe Hagin has been beside President Bush.  Hagin was also an aide to George 41. 

What exactly did Joe Hagin do in the White House?  According to Politico

In short, Hagin manages everything around the president and the presidency except politics and policy. He is the single junction where Bush’s personal life, presidency, security and military support all come together. Colleagues say he revolutionized the way the Secret Service, White House Military Office and the White House staff work together to support the president at the White House, Camp David, on the road and at the ranch in Crawford, Texas.

The note sent by Hagin read:

Dear Friends,

Eight years and a few months ago I moved from Cincinnati to Austin to try to help elect George W. Bush President. I was counting on being away from home for seven months— little did I know what an amazing journey was about to begin.

All these years later I look back in amazement at how fast the time has flown and at how blessed I have been: blessed to work for such a decent, honorable and caring man; blessed to work with such dedicated, hardworking and selfless staff; blessed to be able to call so many of you dear friends.

Combined with my time in previous administrations, I have had the honor and privilege of working here at the White House for almost fourteen years. Through it all — the good times, the tough times, the laughter and the tears, I have had the time of my life and I will always be grateful to the President and Mrs. Bush, Andy Card, Josh Bolten and 41 and Mrs. Bush for giving me such an extraordinary opportunity.

As hard as it is, it’s time to move on. I have accepted an exciting job in the corporate world that will have me working in Chicago and Washington, and spending a lot more time at home in Cincinnati — at long last.

I plan on departing the week of July 20th and I look forward to being able to say goodbye in person over the next few weeks.

I am so proud to have served at the side of this great President with you.

Best always,

Joe

It’s starting to look lonely at the top, but ’tis the season.