Arnold Schwarzenegger Watch: Pat Clarey, Arnold’s Chief of Staff Resigns

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Chief of Staff, Pat Clarey.

The Sacramento Bee has Governor to appoint Democrat

Susan Kennedy, a staunch Democrat and former aide to recalled Gov. Gray Davis, will be named today as Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s new chief of staff.

For Schwarzenegger, who is scheduled to announce the appointment at a 2 p.m. Capitol press conference, the move is the strongest signal yet of what aides have said will be a major reshuffling of his senior staff. Some of those exiting, such as Pat Clarey, who Kennedy is replacing, planned to leave around this time anyway.

Pat Clarey’s e-mail to staff:

From: Pat Clarey
Sent: Wednesday, November 30, 2005 9:01 AM
To: All Governor’s Staff
Subject: Thank you to all

Today I am announcing that I am stepping down on January 1 as Chief of Staff to the Governor. This has been a decision that has been a long time coming. Earlier this year I discussed with the Governor my desire to leave at the end of this year and the time has come. I want to personally thank each and every one of you for your hard work and dedication to this Governor. I am gratified at the success that we have realized as a team.

The most important ingredient to the achievement of the Governor’s successes is assembling a talented and dedicated staff. I could not be more proud of the caliber of your work and dedication. You serve the Governor well every day and I appreciate the tremendous amount of support that you have all shown to me along the way.

I would also like to welcome Susan Kennedy as the new Chief of Staff. Susan’s appointment will be announced later today. I have known and worked with Susan for many years and have a great deal of admiration for her commitment to public service. She knows and understands California’s issues and challenges and will be able to step in and continue to lead the staff to support the vision that the Governor has for a better California. I look forward to transitioning with Susan during the month of December and am confident that it will be a seamless transition.

Susan will be regularly in the horseshoe starting today. I encourage you to introduce yourself and welcome her.

Again, I thank you all for your support.

The fireworks nee speculation about Schwarzenegger’s willingness, competence and ability to win re-election in 2006 is only beginning.

But, then again, Flap said Arnold was toast a month ago.

Michelle Malkin has CALIF. QUAKE: ARNOLD TURNS TO THE DARK SIDE