Austin, TX
The Bush high command was puzzled but nonplussed about my decision. There were many talented operatives around the country just sitting by the phone waiting for an opportunity to join the Bush campaign. My biggest issue now was what I’d do for a job once back in Washington. But the feeling of freedom away from politics was exhilarating.
My top goal was getting healthy and quitting smoking and was heading back to Washington for the first time to live my life around my own schedule — not a politician’s schedule.