A look at life for White House staff

Interesting piece in today's NY Times on the work-life balance issues that come with working in the White House. I've been a staff person before at a decent level in a modestly important office, thinking about my work I'm awed at anyone working at this level. I have the utmost respect for the people who have taken these positions. It must be incredibly grueling and destructive in so many ways to normal relationships and marriages.

One thing that did jump out at me though,

White House advisers often work 60 to 70 hours a week...

That actually surprises me. I would have expected more like 60 for many of the staff but I'd guess the top advisers are working much more than 70. Maybe not, but I sort of doubt Rahm Emmanual, Robert Gibbs or David Axelrod work less than 80 hours in a week. And those are just the "name" folks at the top. There are many other working behind the scenes but who are nonetheless absolutely critical to the functioning of the office and our government.

Anyway it's an interesting article and recommended weekend reading.