Government

Bush Stands Up For Rumsfeld Again

April 20, 2006 ⋅  E-Mail Article ⋅  Print Article ⋅ Post a comment

President Bush soundly gave Secretary of defense Donald Rumsfeld a resounding statement of support, President Bush was quoted as saying that Donald Rumsfeld is doing a “fine job.” However, I believe I also recall President Bush saying that, “Brownie is doing a great job” , just before he got replaced. So where does this really leave Don Rumsfeld?

It depends on how much credence you put into the Bush comments. One thing is for certain, the war is over budget, and in over-time. We need changes, or at least noticeable improvements, or the whole Republican Party may be ousted come next election. Guilt by association rings most true in politics and many Republicans are fearing a voter backlash in regards to the Rumsfeld issue, along with immigration and energy problems.

The Rumsfeld issue came to a head when President Bush interrupted his Easter vacation at Camp David to release a public statement of support for Secretary Rumsfeld. In sports, the public support of the owner is like the kiss of death but in politics it usually has a different meaning. This statement most likely means that Rumsfeld will be around as long as Bush wants him and I don’t see the second term President making any more dramatic changes in his cabinet regardless of public opinion.

The Presidents public display of support is an all out effort to squash speculation about Rumsfelds’ status. Bush stated repeatedly, in regards to Rumsfeld, “he’s doing a fine job; I strongly support him.”

Critics have been ratcheting up the rhetoric calling for the replacement of Rumsfeld because of the recent statements made by retired military Generals speaking about Secretary Rumsfelds’ handling of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. President Bush further stated in regards to the criticism about Rumsfeld, “I listen to all voices, but mine is the final decision and Don Rumsfeld is doing a fine job. He’s not only transforming the military, he’s fighting a war on terror. He’s helping us fight a war on terror. I have strong confidence in Don Rumsfeld…I hear the voices, and I read the front page, and I know the speculation. But I’m the decider, and I decide what is best. And what’s best is for Don Rumsfeld to remain as the secretary of defense.”

So love him or despise him he is the horse President Bush is willing to ride till the end of the race.

Bush Steps Up For Donald Rumsfeld

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