[ConservativeMan55]

Also I think Rumsfeld and Powell were playing a little good cop-bad cop situation. That was my theory until I saw Colin get angry with Old Europe. Once Powell realized they were screwing him over, he purposely stopped diplomacy and I can't blame him at that point. What is the point in negotiating with FRIENDS OF SADDAM.

[Pres Raygun]

Also I think Rumsfeld and Powell were playing a little good cop-bad cop situation.

Absolutely correct. Powell is playing good cop and he's got everyone fooled except you and me. Call me crazy, but I wouldn't be surprised if Powell helped Newt write his speech. If I'm correct watch for a few other Republicans to start talking about reforming State and then finally Powell will come out and announce his reforms at state. Kemp is just out of the loop. He'll get a call tonight from the Whitehouse telling him to shut up and go away, which he will quietly do.

[Right_in_Virginia]

Once Powell realized they were screwing him over, he purposely stopped diplomacy and I can't blame him at that point.

I agree with you...to a point.

Don't forget---Powell was the force in the administration behind going to the UN....yet he failed to deliver.

And, Powell's organization also failed to secure Turkey's cooperation.

While I don't disagree with Newt's conclusion that the State Department needs to catch up with today's world; I disagree with Newt's timing and choice of words.

Newt's statements neither helped the administration nor did they advance his goals.