As Powell sees many of his own ideas proven defective, especially in matters having to do with the Palestine, Arafat, Israel, and Mideast issues...
And time and again finds that the policies of Condoleeza, Rumsfeld, and Cheney prove to be what is required...
I say Powell is both self-important, and a SLOW learner...but not THAT slow! Further, the rumors he might be leaving are bound to have had a salutary effect. IMHO he could not be blasted out of [caused to voluntarily leave] State not even with a Pally suicide bomber!
By the way, why didn't Clinton want Osama when he had a chance from Sudan? Osama had the means to make it worth Willie's consideration. Not accusing Willie but wondering.
Powell's job is to be a diplomat and to try to solve problems with words. He has never been defiant of Bush policy-- only hopeful and optimistic about using soft words.
Proverbs 15:1 ¶ A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.