Yes. Haig chose his words poorly at a time when everyone was very on edge.
The VP was heading back to the White House. Everyone understood that. Meanwhile, there was a press conference at the White House and someone had to stand up and say something. The Secretary of State tried to calm things down by communicating that the White House was not in chaos. Therefore, “I’m in charge here” was simply meant to be reassuring.
But people got upset and the media made a big deal over it.
It’s a bit like Obama’s “57 states” comment. Although Obama made an unforced error and Haig was dealing with a national crisis and a chaotic situation.
Haig did the wrong thing, at the right time.
Haig’s words and press reaction need to be put in additional context.
Haig had a reputation for being a fanatical self-promoter and bureaucratic infighter. Many military types (who had been passed over for promotion due to Haig) were only too happy to share their anti-Haig anecdotes with the media. This had been going on for many years.
Haig’s gaffe reinforced the already existing stereotype.
Exactly!