Commerce Secretary Don Evans, one of President Bush's closest friends, also announced he will leave his post and return to his native state of Texas. Evans was Bush's campaign chairman in 2000 and became a leader of Bush's economic team after his appointment to the Cabinet in 2001. The Houston Chronicle reported last week that Evans' resignation "is sure to fuel political speculation in Texas, where he has left open the possibility of running for governor." In a recent interview with the Chronicle, Evans said he had no interest in running in 2006, when incumbent Republican Gov. Rick Perry is expected to seek reelection, but he did not rule out 2010. "I do enjoy public service," said Evans.
