Karl Rove to quit this month

By Jeremy Pelofsky

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Karl Rove, who masterminded President George W. Bush's two White House victories but was slammed by opponents as a divisive figure in U.S. politics, said on Monday he was resigning and heading home to Texas.

The strategist, known to supporters as "The Architect" for guiding Bush from the Texas governorship to the presidency, but derided by critics as "Bush's brain," is the latest aide to quit as the clock ticks down on Bush's second term.

Rove's departure could leave Bush increasingly isolated as he tries to salvage his final 17 months in office with low approval ratings, a crippled domestic agenda and an unpopular war in Iraq, analysts said.

Bush praised Rove, his deputy chief of staff, for making "enormous sacrifices" for the country, but critics said he helped create a climate of bitter divisiveness and remained under suspicion for his role in administration scandals.

Rove headed out with Bush to a two-week Texas vacation, telling reporters that he wanted to spend more time with his family and that recent investigations and congressional scrutiny had not figured into his decision.

Asked if he was replaceable, Rove said, "Absolutely." He said he had no plans to take part in the 2008 presidential race, though he might be willing to offer advice informally.

His last day at the White House is August 31, and there was no word on a possible successor.

Bush heralded his friend of 34 years and said they would remain close, telling Rove, "I'll be on the road behind you here in a little bit."