Posted on 12/03/2004 1:45:26 PM PST by West Coast Conservative
Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson resigned Friday, warning of a potential global outbreak of the flu and health-related terror attacks. "For the life of me, I cannot understand why the terrorists have not attacked our food supply because it is so easy to do," he said.
Thompson, the eighth member of Bush's 15-person Cabinet to resign since the Nov. 2 election, said he tried to leave office a year ago, but stayed through Bush's re-election campaign at the request of the White House.
"It's time for me and my family to move on to the next chapter in our life," he said.
SNIP
As for Thompson's successor, the secretary had not yet stepped before the microphones when officials said Mark McClellan, the Medicare chief and brother of White House press secretary Scott McClellan, was Bush's likely choice to take over the sprawling HHS bureaucracy.
Thompson said McClellan would make "a great secretary." But he also dropped the names of several other potential candidates, including former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.
Thompson listed accomplishments of his tenure but also said he worries about a worldwide flu pandemic in an era when vaccine is in short supply.
The former Wisconsin governor has warned about food safety issues since before the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, and pushed for more money for safeguards. Spending on food security has increased from $800,000 to $150 million during Thompson's tenure, and there are eight times as many food inspections now as in 2001, according to HHS figures.
Thompson, who served 14 years as Wisconsin governor, said he plans to explore private sector jobs and expressed an interest in advancing health care causes across the globe. He also didn't rule out a return to elective office.
"That's entirely possible. I happen to love politics. Why would I say no? There's a Senate seat open," he said. Democratic Sen. Herb Kohl's term expires in 2006.
Thompson said he intends to serve until Feb. 4 or until the Senate confirms his successor.
Well, at least he didn't use charts and diagrams to show them easy it would be to do.
What's coming tomorrow, Tommy? Our most vulnerable water supplies and how to attack them?
Bump!
Either the FDA or a Drug Company.....Dumb as he is.
"For the life of me, I cannot understand why the terrorists have not attacked our food supply because it is so easy to do,"
Either he's stupid, or enhancing his cred for a private sector gig related to food safety.
Can't attest to the veracity of the quote. But I will go so far as to say that he is a jerk...
When Bush said his mistake was some of his appointments, I think we just found out one of them.
Good riddance, he has been a repulsive member of the cab.
Just out of curiosity -- but how much food are we actually importing from the Middle East? And what kinds?
It was a direct quote. I saw him say it on TV. What a flaming idiot.
Frankly, I think that President Bush should call him immediately and tell him to get on the plane to Wisconsin. He is no longer needed. He is no longer wanted. He is no longer relevant.
It was a direct quote. I saw him say it on TV. What a flaming idiot.
I just finished reading the article on Drudge and nearly dropped my teeth on that one!!
THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HURT US!!!
No, to the left... a little more to the left... there, now you got it...
What a jerk!
Ps... when can we expect Mineta's resignation? PLEASE!!!
This moron's reference to our food supply is reminiscent of Gary Hart's invitation to the press to follow him everywhere during his presidential campaign. They did and his campaign was over.
He should be brought up for Treason.
Alright, the Tylenol poisoner has probably just been coaxed out of retirement. Thank you Mr. Thompson.
Buh Bye
This guy is leaving his service to this country with a betrayal. What was up with the food comment?
That is the kind of statement that would be considered sabotage or loose lips sinking ships. What could possibly be the thinking behind this statement?
Thompson is an idiot! He gives a suggestion to terrorists and an assist to Rats, while he wants to become (again!) Governor of WI (or the next senator). Please, don't let him run for any Office!
read also here:
http://www.wbay.com/Global/story.asp?S=2647341&nav=51s7TonJ
Thompson and Powell: two big mistakes of "Bush I"!
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