PJ Crowley Resigns

Just days after news came out that State Department spokesperson PJ Crowley had called Bradley Manning’s treatment “ridiculous and counterproductive and stupid,” Crowley has resigned. Sources tell CNN Crowley’s resignation today was the result of pressure from an angry White House. He will be replaced by Mike Hammer, who previously served as his deputy. In a statement, Crowley said his comments “were intended to highlight the broader, even strategic impact of discreet actions undertaken by national security agencies every day and their impact on our global standing and leadership.”

"The exercise of power in today's challenging times and relentless media environment must be prudent and consistent with our laws and values," the statement continued. Crowley has told friends he is concerned that Manning’s apparent mistreatment will undermine his legitimate prosecution and could damage President Obama’s global reputation. Click for more on Manning’s treatment. (More PJ Crowley stories.)