The story behind the exit is rather confusing; however, the White House's handling of the situation was pretty solid. In mid-June, it was reported that Emanuel was interested in stepping down for many reasons. Firstly, he felt their were differences in style with other senior Obama staffers. In an Israeli National News article dated June 21, 2010, Emanual was portrayed as being frustrated by what he views as too much idealism amoung Obama's closest cohort.

The article also cites Obama's advisors as being dissatisfied with the problems Obama has faced in passing legislation. They attribute this difficulty to Mr. Emanuel. Another internal problem concerns Emanuel's relationship with Israel. His blunt manner and support of certain Palestinian Authority demands has "pushed Obama into an open confrontation with the Netanyaho government" of Israel, "alienating US Jews and Israelis."

Supposedly, this early resignation has been in the works for quite some time. The above aspects, coupled with his job's extreme overall pressure and his concern over "losing touch with his family" most likely led to his decision to resign.

Rahm Emanuel's resignation came today. I believe that his announcement was strategically designed to minimize the blow the Obama administration will receive. Firstly, Mr. Pete Rouse will be appointed interim Chief of Staff. He is an incredibly hard worker who is very qualified for this position--the experience is there. To further legitimize Emanuel's resignation, he resigned in time to potentially run for Chicago mayor (an open slot as the current mayor does not plan to re-run). This is not to say that before all of this commotion Emanuel did not have the hope or desire of running for Chicago mayor--he probably did; however, to resign in this fashion makes him leave on a higher note that doesn't deal a horrible blow to the Obama administration (its not a symbol of instability like resigning over differences in opinion).

Thats my two cents!

Last night on the ABC evening news with Diane sawyer, in his short piece he said that he was keeping with the promise that he made to be in the administration for two years. This is the anniversary of that commitment. His goal, as he has said since he was a younger was ot run for mayor of Chicago. With Mayor Daly stepping down, he feels that this is good time to begin the process to become a proactive Political figure and Mayor of Chicago.

http://abcnews.go.com/ThisWeek/video/interview-rahm-emanuel-10963493
www.whitehouse.gov/administration/staff/rahm-emanuel

Rahm is stepping down to run for Mayor of Chicago. He is suppose to announce his bid today. Will this hurt the white house? I'd say yes. He's made immense contributions to the various reforms we've had lately. He's played a big part in the financial reform legislation, health care reform etc.

I personally believe he's looking to be more in the spotlight. Hes helped out a lot, but you hardly ever hear his name, if you read obama's speech its obvious he's a well respected member of the cabinet and he does his job well. It's his turn out in the light, I wish him luck!

The opportunity has arisen to run for an open seat as Mayor of Chicago. That is an executive position of much higher status than a chief of staff, even to the President of the USA. It's also a job that can continue for many years, while the chief of staff is a short term job, 8 years absolute maximum.

It mainly says about the Obama administration that it hires top folks. If even a staff member is a good shot at a major elected post, they have been recruiting for real talent.