GOP says Rumsfeld is stepping down
By DAVID ESPO and LIZ SIDOTI
Associated Press, Nov 8, 1:06 PM EST
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, architect of an unpopular war in Iraq, intends to resign after six stormy years at the Pentagon, Republican officials said Wednesday.
Officials said Robert Gates, former head of the CIA, would replace Rumsfeld.
President Bush was expected to announce Rumsfeld's departure and Gates' nomination at an afternoon news conference. Administration officials notified congressional officials in advance.
Last week, as he campaigned to save the Republican majority, Bush declared that Rumsfeld would remain at the Pentagon through the end of his term.
Gates first joined the CIA in 1966 and served in the intelligence community for more than a quarter century, under six presidents. His nomination must be confirmed by the Senate.
coemgen said:Bob Gates, president of Texas A&M, is being suggested as the next man.
BrownEyedBoy said:I was shocked at this one. Not expecting it all from the stubborn beast. About time...
deep said:
He is a COWARD
this ADMINISTRATION is full of COWARDS.
Do you really think he has the testes to take any REAL questions from the Democrats?
Bectal saw the writting on the wall and got out a couple of weeks ago, do any of them want any real questions on the no-bid contracts?
80sU2isBest said:
Gig `em Aggies!
Judah said:Well, three years too late, but I'll take it.
Now the questions come: did he jump or was he pushed (by W); how many Repub seats could've been saved if he'd done it last month?
Judah said:
Now the questions come: did he jump or was he pushed (by W); how many Repub seats could've been saved if he'd done it last month?
Last week, as Bush campaigned to save the Republican majority, he declared that Rumsfeld would remain at the Pentagon through the end of his term.
But sources told NBC News military analyst Bill Arkin that prior to the election, Vice President Dick Cheney argued with other politicians over whether Rumsfeld should stay. White House Chief of Staff Josh Bolten and others argued Rumsfeld should be removed, the source said.
kellyahern said:http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15622266/?GT1=8717
What a difference a week (and an election) makes, huh?
Scarletwine said:Ditto
But, I'll take one more victory. Course now Bush can give the line blah blah we have heard the people and are responding blah blah blah
Judah said:Well, three years too late, but I'll take it.
Now the questions come: did he jump or was he pushed (by W); how many Repub seats could've been saved if he'd done it last month?
U2Man said:do you guys really think that this will make any difference, politically?
the last time I checked, cheney was still in the control room.