Rove divorce final

WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. Republican political operative Karl Rove's divorce from his wife of 24 years, Darby, has been granted, a family spokeswoman says.

Dana Perino, speaking for the family, said the divorce was granted last week in Texas, Politico reported Tuesday.

"The couple came to the decision mutually and amicably, and they maintain a close relationship and a strong friendship," Perino said. "There will be no further comment, and the family requests that its privacy be respected."

The Washington publication reported a family friend said the Roves "did spend Christmas together with their son, and they plan to spend time together in the future."

Rove was a key adviser in the administration of President George W. Bush.