Despite Report, Aide Says Powell to Finish Term
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NEW YORK — Gen. Colin L. Powell wants to step down from his job as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff before his term expires Sept. 30, according to a published report. However, Powell’s spokesman said Tuesday night that the general intended to serve out his term.
The New York Times reported that Powell, 55, has told Defense Secretary Les Aspin that he wants to retire early because he is against military budget cuts that President Clinton has proposed.
Citing “close associates” of Powell’s, the newspaper said Powell wanted to give his successor more time to win influence this summer in shaping the Pentagon’s budget.
Aspin is reportedly considering Powell’s request but has yet to issue a recommendation to Clinton, the newspaper said.
The Times quoted friends and associates of Powell as saying his desire for early retirement was reinforced by his series of public clashes with Clinton over ending the ban on gays in the military.
Asked about the Times report, Powell’s spokesman, Col. F. William Smullen, said that the chairman has told him he plans to fulfill his term, which expires Sept. 30.
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