Obama aide to step down

US PRESIDENT Barack Obama’s top spokesman, Robert Gibbs, said yesterday he will step down and work outside the White House as a voice for his boss, as an administration reshuffle gathered pace.

Gibbs plays a central role in the White House and is not limited to the traditional press secretary portfolio.

He said he would work on Obama’s 2012 reelection bid, continue to advise his boss from outside the White House, and take to the speaking circuit in support of the president and his policies.

The departure of Gibbs comes as Obama contemplates a reshuffle to freshen his administration, and as his reelection campaign machinery begins to stir.