[Defiant]

There are even rumours that Powell may not serve out the rest of Bush's first presidential term. That is not to say Powell's moderation and international credibility are not valued by Bush, who likes having divergent advisers among whom he adjudicates.

I don't mind having Powell at State with a moderating voice. And he has been a good soldier once a decision is made. He has been supportive of the war once the UN route was discarded. However, where I think Powell hurts us is his reliance on the old guard at Foggy Bottom, the Clintonites. Rumsfeld cleaned house at the Pentagon; Powell has left his intact, and they run around interfering with this war.

Powell did blab too much to Woodward.

[dead]

I agree with you about Powell. He has his say, strongly, and then backs the decision of the President no matter what it is.

He's too multilaterist for my tastes, but his input is valuable.