
“There’s no question in my mind by starting late and ‘Washington Monumenting’ the process, they certainly went after hot-button things. As far as I’m concerned, this is all politics.” — Gordon Adams, a senior White House budget official during the Clinton administration

“There’s no question in my mind by starting late and ‘Washington Monumenting’ the process, they certainly went after hot-button things. As far as I’m concerned, this is all politics.” — Gordon Adams, a senior White House budget official during the Clinton administration

Two possible successors to Mr. Panetta if he does step down are former Undersecretary of Defense Michele Flournoy (top) and Undersecretary Ashton B. Carter. Both held positions in the Clinton administration, and both hold positions like Mr. Panetta’s.

Two possible successors to Mr. Panetta if he does step down are former Undersecretary of Defense Michele Flournoy (top) and Undersecretary Ashton B. Carter. Both held positions in the Clinton administration, and both hold positions like Mr. Panetta’s.

Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius (left) and University of Miami President Donna Shalala, who had Mrs. Sibelius' job in the Clinton administration, discuss the still-divisive Affordable Care Act at a community health center in Miami. (Associated Press)