Josh Marshall has figured out why Rumsfeld won't be fired!

[displacedtexan]

It makes perfect sense: if Rummy is fired, or if he resigns, the resulting Senate Confirmation hearings regarding a new Sec. of Def. leaves Bush* vulnerable to attack too close to Nov. 2nd!

http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/

[Nite Owl]

1. Very good point.

So they can literally get away with murder instead. He should have gone long ago. Now Bushie* has more weight to carry.

[nadinbrzezinski]

2. I hope Rangel does intro

the articles of impeachment... that will literally place them between a hard rock and a hard place... hearings for either will
raise those questions. That said DeLay and Hastert will do all they
can to stop these articles from coming to the floor

[Bake]

6. Hearings never make it to the floor.

PLus, I'm convinced Rummy is more valuable to our side as damaged goods.

Bake

[TacticalPeek]

3. He has the part about Senate hearings right, that's for sure.

I may prefer Rumdum as damaged goods around Shrub's campaign neck, come to think of it.

Particularly when you consider the likely answer to the question, "Can Shrub make Iraq worse?".

[Imalittleteapot]

4. How can Bush fire him?

Bush knew about the prison scandal, don't ya think? A N D, Bush only fires those that oppose him or offer him advise he doesn't want to hear. So many in the administration need to be held accountable - yet they never are. A N D, Bush is probably afraid of Rummy.

[displacedtexan]

5. Excellent points!

So many possible outcomes, so few villains.

The suspense is killing me!

[ixion]

7. fired or not fired: they should ALL be charged

with crimes against humanity. :grr:

[natrat]

8. that skank wolfowitless and the rest of the crew

should be held accountable for their arrogance and total lack of respect for the lessons of history

[Miss Authoritiva]

9. Well, there are casters on the chairs.

"Let's say Rumsfeld resigns on Friday. The election is still six months away. And the nation is at war. So a new Defense Secretary would be needed more or less immediately. That would open up a very uncomfortable prospect for the administration."

Agreed. But there are a few options. Rumsfeld goes. Powell shifts over as Secretary of Defense. Maybe Rice moves up to Secretary of State. Maybe Bremer takes up Rice's spot. Not much of a change in the gene pool -- the way Bush likes it -- and these people have previously been vetted.

Just a thought.

[opihimoimoi]

10. Sounds very plausible as Bush seemed real reluctant during the

announcement that Rummy is staying. He seemed weak, tired, and Bushed. His voice did not have the vibrant tone, more like a humble one.

He is stuck with Rummy. The albatross on the neck time.