Powell could have resigned rather than follow the order — I mean assuming that what Chris Wallace is alleging actually happened. With the Wallaces’ no never can tell.
Yes, he could have resigned on principle. The thing that almost never happens in American politics — which speaks volumes. But the country was gung-ho for war, and Powell didn’t want to be on the losing side. He wanted to remain relevant, a player, and so he made his choice. Had the chance to be a hero and save his country from a devastating folly, but he chose to embrace the lie because he perceived signing on to be in his interest. No tears for this odds-figuring swamp creature.