Free Republic

WASHINGTON – Crusty and unapologetic, Donald H. Rumsfeld is the public face of an unpopular war and a target of unrelenting criticism. A growing number of commanders who served under him say he has botched the Iraq operation, ignored the advice of his generals and should be replaced. The White House insists the defense secretary retains President Bush's confidence. Few close to the administration expect him to be shown the door. “The president believes Secretary Rumsfeld is doing a very fine job during a challenging period in our nation's history,” Bush spokesman Scott McClellan said Thursday as the administration circled...

This is a partial transcript of "Special Report With Brit Hume" from Jan. 18, 2006, that has been edited for clarity. BRIT HUME, HOST: So, what if Iran defies the rest of the world or much of it and continues its nuclear program? Israel says it won’t tolerate that, and the Bush administration is suggesting it wouldn’t either. So, is there a military answer? To answer the question, we turn to Fox News military analyst, retired Air Force General Tom McInerney, who thinks there is a possible military option. Welcome, sir. LT. GEN. TOM MCINERNEY, USAF, (RET): Thanks, Brit. HUME:...