MS. PERINO: Welcome, everyone, to the last press briefing of the Bush administration. It's hard to believe that this is my 145th and final press briefing behind this podium. Over 1,000 briefings have been given by press secretaries and deputy press secretaries, at this podium, since the beginning of the administration -- starting, of course, with our very good friend, Ari Fleischer.

I've been honored to have been able to speak on President Bush's behalf and it's been a privilege to take your questions.

We've prepared a tribute to you today, but before we get to that, let me first thank my amazing press staff. They've seen me at my worst -- usually at 6:30 a.m. -- but they always help me to present my best. I think you'll all agree that this is the most professional, experienced and fun press staff that we've ever had. Thank you all.

So much history has happened at the White House, and much of it occurred right here in this room. Many of you were here to witness it. There's Helen Thomas; Bill Plante working on a crossword puzzle -- (laughter) -- and Terry Hunt -- wait a second, is that a mustache on Terry Hunt? (Laughter.) Kind of. (Laughter.)

We have come a long way since the old briefing room. Take a look at this photo -- and please remember that this is now a non-smoking facility. (Laughter.) Looking back over the past eight years we've had a lot of fun; we've shared a lot of laughs -- (laughter) -- and we have found ways to weather the storms.

It has been challenging on occasion, and there may have even been a day or two when the President wanted to switch jobs with you -- oops, we're a little bit behind, but we're going to let it catch up. There we go -- that's weathering the storm, that's the challenge -- (laughter) -- challenging on occasion, and that there may have even been a day or two when the President wanted to switch jobs with you. (Laughter.)

But I think it's safe to say that some of you may have been eyeing his job on occasion, as well. (Laughter.) I have a lot of respect for the White House press corps -- don't look so surprised. (Laughter.) It's true I respect you, because you never once complained about your work space. (Laughter.) Even though sometimes it could be a little cramped. I respect you because you are always at the top of your game, you never miss a beat. (Laughter.) Even when on some days you felt like lying down on the job. (Laughter.)

I respect you because no matter the distraction, you always reported on the most critical news facing the nation. (Laughter.) And I hope that that respect is mutual, because I believe this administration has done our best to cater to the press corps' every need. (Laughter.)

People always ask me, what is one myth you wish you could clear up about the President? I think it's that he doesn't appreciate the role of the press. Well, I am here to tell you that he really does. As he said in his press conference earlier this week, he wishes you all nothing but the very best. (Laughter.)

Like you all, he is a man of peace. (Laughter.) I know that sometimes when he looks at you, he is simply in awe. (Laughter.) And I've seen that same look of admiration from some of you. Helen. (Laughter.) Bill is looking for a five-letter word for "uninterested." (Laughter.) And, Terry Moran, eyes on your own paper, please. (Laughter.) But at least he's awake -- unlike Peter Baker. (Laughter.) And don't forget Mark Smith back there with a real mustache. (Laughter.)

The President is somebody who never wanted to hold any of you down. And you've done an admirable job. The reporters in this room stand head and shoulders above all others in the business. And all of the crew members stand tall day in and day out. (Laughter.)

We all have difficult jobs; we all work long and tough hours. And it's been an exciting challenge. I know I had some big shoes to fill when I got here, and I still only wear a size 6. And I just want to say a few words about our friend, Tony Snow.

Tony was a man who loved his job. Tony loved President Bush. He lived life to the fullest. And when Tony lost his valiant battle against cancer last summer, we all lost a world champion.

Through these turbulent years, I've been honored to be a part of your lives. I want to thank the President, and his senior staff, for the confidence and the support that they've given me. I want to thank my husband, Peter, who made all of this possible. I think he's here somewhere. Back in the back -- there he is.

And as we move on, I want you to know that I think America needs more reporters, not fewer. So let's hope someone figures out a business model that will keep you in your seats for a long time to come.

I wish my successor, Robert Gibbs, all the very best. Please go easy on him -- for a week. (Laughter.)

And before I say goodbye, I will take your questions one last time. (Laughter and applause.)

Jennifer.

seen at 09:00, 16 January in Whitehouse Press Briefings. Email this to a friend.
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