    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [June 3, 2004]
    [Page 985]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the Resignation of George J. Tenet as Director of Central Intelligence
    June 3, 2004

        Today George Tenet, the Director of the CIA, submitted a letter of
    resignation. I met with George last night in the White House. I had a
    good visit with him. He told me he was resigning for personal reasons. I
    told him I'm sorry he's leaving. He's done a superb job on behalf of the
    American people. I accepted his letter. He will serve at the CIA as the
    Director until mid-July, at which time the Deputy Director of the
    Central Intelligence Agency, John McLaughlin, will serve as the Acting Director.
        George Tenet is the kind of public service you like--servant you
    like to work with. He's strong. He's resolute. He served his Nation as
    the Director for 7 years. He has been a strong and able leader at the
    Agency. He's been a strong leader in the war on terror, and I will miss
    him. I send my blessings to George and his family. I look forward to
    working with him until the time he leaves the Agency. And I wish him all
    the very best.
        Thank you.

    Note: The President spoke at 10:26 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White
    House.