Here is the problem, which is the same problem that we have always had in this country. Intellectuals. These folks have ruined every single thing they have ever been in charge of. Bush is at a disadvantage because the 'new tone' was a big mistake. Bush should have cleaned house. Sad to say, but Bush needed those same Intellectuals to win the election. He had to come out with Powell early to sooth the State Dept which could have derailed the election.
The Neocons are all about divide and conquer. They don't care what really happens in the world as long as someone pays attention to them. Re: Kristol. Right now, Bush can only trust a few folks; Rummy in particular. The Defense Dept is almost Bush's only friend at the moment, because the State Dept is full of liars and appeasers who would rather have their jobs under Kerry, as they then would have nothing to do but attend parties, and no longer be subject to embassy bombings. The most important thing is that Bush wins reelection, where he can then get rid of Powell, clean house at State, and do what needs to be done to win in Iraq.
Stop doubting, as this is exactly what is going to happen when Bush wins, which is why the whole world opposes it. Many, many people are about to lose their power in the world and they don't like it.
I suppose I'll knock it off for now, but if Ari Fleischer's book turns out to be a behind-the-scenes tell all and casts further doubt on this administration, I'm outta here. (after changing my name to something that has more of a French flair and pulling out the white scarf from my accessories drawer)
Thanks for the effort, PD. You're a sweetheart even though you try your best to disguise it.