I agree. It looks like we are getting a step back with the Gates guy. Why can't President Bush get it? He hasn't lost support because he hasn't been diplomatic enough he has lost support because he hasn't been strong enough and conducted the war strongly enough. He needed to replace Rumsfeld with someone of the caliber of retired General Tommy Franks (http://www.tommyfranks.com/Index.shtml) not some intelligence wonk from DC. I do not understand the motivations of President Bush any longer. It doesn't make sense from a political or situational point of view. This is the President's last term, he has nothing to lose from behaving like he has nothing to lose. I just pray for a straight talking leader to take the stage who isn't afraid of media or standing up for America.
Rumsfeld wasn't a retired general either. Rumsfeld turned out to be one of the best SOD's.
The same CIC who picked Rumsfeld has now picked Gates. Gates deserves a chance.