One of the Top Economic Advisor's Leaving

Two years ago, Stephen Friedman replaced Larry Lindsey as the Director of National Economic Council. Now, Friedman has announced his plans to leave by the end of this year. During his time with the administration Freidman has worked primarily behind the scenes. During the summer of 2003 he enthusiastically backed the third round of tax cuts. He plans to return to New York at the beginning of the year, and despite speculation he will not become treasury secretary during Bush's second term. Administration Officials indicated that the will not be considered for this position because he has never expressed a desire to do so.