On Rumsfeld:

[Dulcinea]

Has it occurred to anyone besides me that, even though he's grossly incompetent at his job, he'll stay on because he takes the heat off Boy George? Just think, all the attention's on "embattled" Rummy, & his boss can dismantle the social safety net unnoticed.

Think about it. Rove's fine hand is all over this.

[Osamasux]

1. It's the old Neocon connection to Cheney

They've been together for 30 years. Plus the absolute refusal to ever admit a mistake. This is beyond Rove.

[msgadget]

2. He's staying because getting rid of him

would be an acknowledgment of errors.

[muse]

3. Bush needs to show some leadership and do it.

More Republican leaders need to stand up and shout and cry out for Rummy's resignation. It's going to get much worse for Bush's long term reputation and the Republican party's future in the next 2-6 years of election cycles if Bush doesn't start showing some leadership. He's a lame duck president. It's really not that hard. CEOs do this all the time. These House and Senate Republicans who will be facing relection in 06 and 08 are going to feel the hurt because of their President - and soon.

[msgadget]

4. He IS showing his form of leadership...by not caving to public pressure.

During his second term he does have the freedom to debate himself he didn't during his first but, instead, he wants his legacy to be one of a 'resolute' leader, unswerving, firm.