Scott McClellan Bids Adieu to the White House Press Corps

Today was press secretary Scott McClellan's last day on the job. Fox News contributor Tony Snow will take over on May 8.

As he stepped into the press room, everyone applauded.

"Big turnout today, something going on?"

One journalist told him, "I appreciate the way you've treated us all fairly and professionally."

Another said, "We know that you are going to be leaving us soon, today's your last week--"

To which McClellan quipped, "Did you read the stock market today, where it was two and a half years ago, three years ago?" implying that his tenure in the job was related to the market's rise.

The briefing with reporters was slightly edgy like all the others. But at the end McClellan said, "Let me take a couple of minutes just to say a few quick thank yous."

He thanked various people in the White House staff, including the president and Laura Bush, and then turned to the press corps.

"Finally, I want to thank each of you in this room, and each of you in the White House press corps that aren't here today. Thank you for all you do to keep the American people informed. Thank you for all you do to hold those of us in elected office accountable for the decisions that are made.

"Keep after it, keep up the good work. You are a terrific bunch of professionals and it has been a real honor to serve with you all. Thank you."

They applauded as he left the room. Thus begins the Snow era.