The administration’s efforts spin Philbin’s departure defy the reality of the situation. In an email to PRNewser, a FEMA spokesman described Philbin’s departure as a job promotion. He is landing an “amazing opportunity to head the communications shop at ODNI,” said FEMA press secretary Aaron Walker.
For DNI Mike McConnell — who has gained a reputation for hyping and manipulating terrorist threats — the acquisition of an expert in phony communications seems quite appropriate.
UPDATE: The AP reports that Philbin’s hiring has been put on hold by the DNI, and McConnell is now “weighing whether to hire” him.