Asa Hutchinson's departure blamed on 'burnout'.

• Author: Pappalardo, Joe
• Position: Homeland Defense Briefs - Brief Article

Department of Homeland Security staffers disputed news reports that Asa Hutchinson's decision to quit his post as DHS under-secretary as was based on being passed over for the top position at the agency.

Rather, they maintained that the position--deep within one the largest reorganizations of the federal government in history--lends itself to burnout. "I'm amazed Secretary Ridge and Undersecretary Hutchinson were able to move at this pace for so long," said one DHS staffer. "It takes a toll."

However, the staffer acknowledged that being called on to serve as DHS secretary would have been a tough request to turn down. Even Hutchinson's letter of resignation contains a hint that he'd be open to another round as a fed: "I trust there will be continued opportunities for service and that...