[maryz]

Susan Collins (sounds like she's on downers, but maybe she always sounds that way): Must now try to convince the world that horrific images are not the real America. Troubled by Pentagon's failure to come forward to reveal abuse, to express outrage and concern. Believes that had they done that would have mitigated perception, esp. in Muslim communities. Doesn't mean press releases; Rummy should have come forward. Do you believe you erred in not coming forward to world community? [God what an idiot she is!]

Rumsfeld: Thinks he responded in full in his statement. He see swift corrective action. DoD announced that abuse was being charged, criminal investigations underway. No one in Pentagon had seen photos; they were part of investigative process. It is the photos that gives vivid realization; words don't do it. 1200 court martials underway. Importance of protecting rights of people charged and seeing they don't get off because of command influence. Did not release Taguba to press -- against the law. Shocked everyone. But can't suggest CENTCOM did not take swift action.

[ken5050]

just wondering..how many wpm can you type..

[maryz]

Collins: But it would have been better if Rummy had come forward and told the world about the photos and his determination to set matters right.

Rumsfeld: I wish I had done that. But doesn't know how to reach down into criminal investigation that also has strategic implications in the world. We don't have those procedures; never needed them before. People running around with digital cameras and passing pictures around to media before they arrived in Pentagon. Only General Smith had even seen them.