Susan Rice Withdraws Name From Consideration As Next Top Diplomat

NBC news is reporting Susan Rice has withdrawn her name from consideration for Secretary of State. NBC’s Brian Williams reports that in a letter to the President, Rice said: “I am highly honored to be considered by you for appointment as Secretary of State. The position of Secretary of State should never be politicized. I am saddened that we have reached this point even before you have decided whom to nominate.” President Obama has also put out a statement reading in part: “While I deeply regret the unfair and misleading attacks on Susan Rice, her decision demonstrates the strength of her character and an admirable commitment to rise above the politics of the moment and put our national interests first.”

Update

Read Rice’s full letter to the President here.