Sean Spicer ends tumultuous tenure as White House press secretary
What's the story
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer has resigned reportedly in opposition to President Donald Trump's decision to appoint combative Wall Street financier Anthony Scaramucci as new communications director.
The resignation brings to an end his tumultuous six-month term as the Trump administration's public face.
"I wanted to give the president and the new team a clean slate," Spicer said after announcing his resignation.
Significance
Spicer became household names due to frequent gaffes, alternate facts
Spicer was known for his testy exchanges with reporters from the White House Press corps.
He became a household name due to his proclivity for making gaffes and debatable assertions.
"But he could also be charming and was liked by many among the press corps," the BBC reported.
His role was continuously undermined by Trump's own public statements and tweets.
Information
Spicer's departure indicates White House's internal struggles
The Trump administration which is just six months old, is under tremendous pressure over the Russia investigation, legislative setbacks and the president's temperament. The administration is reportedly experiencing leaks and is rife with personal feuds among its members.
Spicer's statement
Spicer says it was an honor to serve Trump
"It's been an honor & a privilege to serve @POTUS @realDonaldTrump & this amazing country. I will continue my service through August," Spicer tweeted.
Spicer said Scaramucci's appointment as communications director, a job Spicer partially fulfilled, risked having "too many cooks in the kitchen" in the White House media operation.
Spicer defended Trump's agenda and hit out against the media.
Trump's statement
Trump thanks Spicer, wishes him "continued success"
"I am grateful for Sean's work on behalf of my administration and the American people. I wish him continued success as he moves on to pursue new opportunities -- just look at his great television ratings," Trump said in a statement.
Spicer's resignation came despite the president's request for him to stay on.
Spicer will be replaced by his deputy Sarah Huckabee Sanders.