President Bush announced that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has resigned, and former CIA Director Robert Gates will step in at the Pentagon in prosecuting the Iraq war.

  • Hold off on the champagne just yet: Bush said during his press conference today that he and Gates share a common vision for the war in Iraq….
  • But a small silver lining: CNN’s John King reported that Gates is close friends with Bush family consigliere James Baker, whose Iraq Study Group is reportedly set to recommend a major course change in the war.
  • Bio info: Gates served for 26 years in the CIA and the National Security Administration. He is currently the president of Texas A & M University. Read more at Wikipedia

    AP:

    President Bush said Wednesday Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld is stepping down and former CIA Director Robert Gates will take over at the Pentagon and in prosecuting the war in Iraq.

    Rumsfeld, architect of the unpopular war in Iraq intends to resign after six stormy years at the Pentagon, Republican officials said.

    The development occurred one day after midterm elections that cost Republicans control of the House, and possibly the Senate, as well. Surveys of voters at polling places said opposition to the war was a significant contributor to the Democratic victory.

    Bush described Rumsfeld as a “superb leader” in a time of change, but said his defense chief recognizes the value of “fresh perspective.” He said Rumsfeld is a “trusted adviser and friend,” and that he’s “deeply grateful” for his service to the country. Bush said he and Rumsfeld agreed that “the timing is right for new leadership” at the Pentagon.

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