[washingtonismoney]

I would add Garrett’s statement was fine, and he probably had to put out something after letting it be so public. 

I think it's the timing that doesn't sit well -- right after all the build-up. A few reporters immediately reacted as if Garrett was withdrawing from consideration. So it looks like brand management: not Garrett being rejected, but Garrett doing the rejecting. Fair enough, I suppose, but I do think it's a bit petty.

[washingtonismoney]

I would add Garrett’s statement was fine, and he probably had to put out something after letting it be so public. 

I think it's the timing that doesn't sit well -- right after all the build-up. A few reporters immediately reacted as if Garrett was withdrawing from consideration. So it looks like brand management: not Garrett being rejected, but Garrett doing the rejecting. Fair enough, I suppose, but I do think it's a bit petty.