Description: ThatSince the expression " (that) the CEO had recently resigned" is a declarative content clause, the subordinator "that" is indeed omissible. Personally, I think it sounds better with "that". Others may disagree. – BillJ. Sep 23, 2019 at 17:46. 2. SHJ9000 – I agree with you and BillJ – it sounds much better with that.