Rice displays deft diplomacy

Boulder, Colorado — Mon, 07 May 2007 14:29:59 GMT

It's unfortunate that McCormack acted so poorly and implied indifference toward the Arab World at this press event. BUT, on the other hand, at least he did so visually, for the world to see, unhidden. The Neo-Cons like like Condi Rice and the PNAC crowd PRETEND to have good intentions and then act insidiously. Which is worse?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

TESTRUN#1 — Mon, 07 May 2007 14:31:26 GMT

I'm no fan of Condi Rice. She's Bush's loyal lap dog, could never think things through on her own. Why do you think she was chosen?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Mon, 07 May 2007 15:14:10 GMT

Dear Mr.Fletcher, I can understand why some of the Arab reporters were feeling underappreciated. Assistant Secretary of State of Public Affairs Sean McCormack should know better than to concentrate just on one group of reporters. Especially since the title of his job is public affairs. I am happy that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice smoothed over the situation and the Arab reporters felt appreciated by what she said. It is most difficult being a journalist is the Middle East and I do admire all of your work. Everyone just needs to be respectful of everyone else and not to let things get out of hand. Equal time for everyone. Peace to you Mr.Fletcher. Peace to all!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Sean, Torrington CT — Mon, 07 May 2007 15:42:55 GMT

So has Rice improved over the years as Secretary of State? She certainly came across as a belligerent ham-handed authoritarian in the first few years in that position.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

John, Navarre, FL — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:32:50 GMT

Sec. Rice was the wrong person for the job. Unfortunately it has taken too long for her to polish her skills, dig out from under Pres. Bush's shadow, and attempt to make a difference on the international front.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Sam State — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:35:04 GMT

I think it is just like Rice to notice what was going and take control of the situation. Rice has a very difficult job which I believe she handles very well and I appreciate the author's recognition of this in the statement: "As Rice emphatically and expertly explained American policy on Iran..." We may not always agree with policy, but at least Rice is intelligent and capable.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Haynes Pressley — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:46:35 GMT

Don't forget,Sec. Rice represent Pres. Bush,s policies not herself. She was not elected. If she differ she can resign.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Charles Shafer — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:50:44 GMT

I think you are perfectly right. We have seen Ms. Rice navigate quite aptly many VERY tricky passages and repeatedly come out successful. I think she is perhaps the most valuable asset the United States has or could ever have.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

JOE LI VECCHI 197 EVERETT PL. EA. RUTH., N. J 07073 — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:01:24 GMT

MY ONLY OBJECTION IS THE DIFFICULTY I HAVE REMEMBERING HOW TO SPELL HER NAME. HER 1ST NAME. I HAVE LITTLE OR NO TROUBLE WITH HER LAST NAME. AND I THINK SHE'S KIND OF CUTE. SHE STILL HAS THAT LITTLE GIRL LOOK AND IS HOW OLD? 50 SOMETHING. IS SHE SEEING ANYBODY?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Cecelia Rodriguez, Richmond, VA — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:07:01 GMT

Unforunately the ones who are of the opinion that no one attached to the present White House could possibly do anything good will immediately condemn Rice no matter what good she might do. It is a shame that politics in this country has descended to the extremely low level that it has. I never really liked Bill Clinton however I did not automatically condemn anything and everything that happened in his administration. It would be a big improvement for the US if politicians would observe more statesman-like behaviour instead of all this name calling which only serves to incite further anger. Calling your President a moron or any other such names show everyone else how ignorant you truly are. I never called Bill Clinton any such name even when I felt that he deserved it. This is disrespectful to the office of the President - no matter who it is. Beware - someday that behaviour will come back and bite you.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

c roberts abq, nm — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:08:40 GMT

Yeah, world wars can start over stuff as stupid as "offending" journalists by not calling on them. Poor, delicate flowers that they are. And I'm not kidding.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

carol curtiss, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:25:18 GMT

I think Condi is needed in this day and age. We have forgotten how to be gracious. She also has respect for the office of the president. Lap dog? I don't think so, when she sees something that needs straigtening out, she does it. I would vote for her to be president.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ben Cohen, NY — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:32:17 GMT

To Sam State: Condoleezza Rice is exactly NOT intelligent or capable. At Stanford, for example, everything was handed to her. She is a "yes-man" in the worst possible sense. Her blind loyalty to Bush is deplorable; she is not an independent thinker, but merely a spokeswoman in a time of war; it's a disgrace she was appointed. Remember how stupid she sounded when she spoke to the U.N. while Israel was bombing Lebanon? What a moron! She's even worse than Bolton. Stupid people have caused unnecessary death in the middle east.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Kelly, Troy, MI — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:34:26 GMT

I am still wondering why Condi can talk to the Syrians and it is fine but when Pelossi went over there the Repulsicans jumped all over her. Why is that?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Cranberry — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:34:49 GMT

Rice deserves no respect, all she does is waste people's time in the middle east with all her unfruitful meetings. She is a joke and all the Arab leaders know it. She is a waste of taxpayer dollars.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

David Powell, Cape May County NJ — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:55:57 GMT

Condi is doing a good job. It would be nice if some of the apparent Administration bashers might actually try and see things the US way instead of the Iranian for a change. It seems there is more hate for the Administration in the US than worry about the Nuke-happy Iranians sometimes. Remember that in the US we can post whatever we want about our leaders and it is cool. In Iran if they try that they can end up in prison. Just a thought.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

RHP, Kansas City, MO — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:58:58 GMT

Does anyone think that Madeline Albright would be any better?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

RHP, Kansas City, MO — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:03:10 GMT

Pelossi's a mess. She totally countermanded the policy of the president and the state department(right or wrong) in her going.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

John McKenzie, Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada) — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:04:00 GMT

Well, well. I'm pleased to read that Dr. Rice "emphatically and expertly explained American policy on Iran." Was the event recorded? If so, I'd love to hear it because so far, for the life of me, I cannot fathom the American policy on Iran, Iraq, the Middle East, or anything else for that matter.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

A. Toyinbo, Mount Vernon, Alabama — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:11:22 GMT

Mr. Fletcher, thanks for this posted diplomacy report. I think our problems are compiled daily by the actions of people like McCormack. We failied to put ourselves into the shoes of others and know where those shoes pinched. Codi has done her job the best I think any intelligent person could. She is very capable at the job.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Julio — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:13:52 GMT

She is nothing but Bush play thing! Bush talks she moves her tail in approval!I Can't take all this loving,nor the stupid writer's article!It is all junky worthless talk, while the lives of our brave men are lost for nothing!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Hunter, Lone tree Wyoming — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:20:47 GMT

Fred Thomson for President!!!! Condi Rice for Vice-PRESIDENT!!!!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Brenda, San Bernardino, CA — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:27:23 GMT

It is totally amazing how this woman can do nothing correctly in so many folks' minds. Rather than listen to her and appreciate a great mind who happens to inhabit a black female-- it is just nitpick all over the place. She either had a free ride as a female and black or is an Aunt/Uncle Tom. None of the criticism is of anything of substance. It is based solely on the fact that she is a memeber of Bush's Cabinet. It is sick. get over it and think about what is best to keep this country from being over run by machete IED weilding suicide bombers.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

curtis watson, tx — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:35:07 GMT

Can you please tell me or list any peace agreements or any agreement at all Dr. Rice and President Bush have reached with any countries outside of USA borders?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

John — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:35:36 GMT

To Kelly in Troy. You ask a good question as to why it would be deemed inapropriate for Rep. Pelossi to meet with a head of state. Our government is set up so that the area of foreign policy falls under the President. It does not fall to Congress. To have the person who is 2nd in line to the Presidency, and is a member of Congress, talking to a head of state in a way that could be interprited as different to the Executive branch is wrong. I believe you have to consider this a seperation of powers as writen in the Constitution. Some people have said that Pres. Bush has usurped the powers of the other branchs, and you may be correct. This does not give the loyal opposition the right to do the same. In fact, for those who strongly disagree with the Pres., they may have to consider that Rep. Pelossi is resorting to the tactics she dislikes the most.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Russell in Maryland — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:36:02 GMT

Do you think Colin Powell could have realized the faux pas without waiting for someone in the audience to point it out?

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ivar G., Big Bear Lake, CA — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:38:54 GMT

Fortunately Condoleezza Rice has certain personal characteristics that are missing in many of her critics. Intelligence, "class" and civility are among them. Even if you don't agree with her, they can be more effective by being more constructive and less strident.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Bo Setser, Franklin. N. C. — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:45:01 GMT

I have often critized the State Department. In my opinion they are a group of personnel that think of themselves as elitist, and really are a group of rather dumb dullards. The State Department HAS BEEN SCREWED UP SINCE bEN FRANKLIN.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

c.j. mooremann, CT — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:45:23 GMT

she's no colin powell. she tries to act firm, but really she's just stupid. the bottom line is that she's standing by policy that is wrong in every sense of the word. she's a pro-israel biggot who has helped to make the palestinians even miserable and who has helped to kill and mame hundreds of thousands of iraqis. she should have resigned at the same time that rumsfeld did.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Shawn Bitters Lawrence, KS — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:49:12 GMT

I'm glad that Ms. Rice was sharp enough to gauge the situation. But to change how the US is perceived in the Middle East much more is need then merely answering a few questions. What has been decades in the making will not be cleared up in a press conference.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Lori H — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:49:55 GMT

All you Rice haters are truely pathetic. None of you have half the brains she has, and most certainly dont use what you do have. Ben from NY,,,No one gets a PHD handed to them you moron....Condi rice is gracious as she is intelligent. It is a shame that more politicians do not have her abilities. If they did DC would not be run by selfish pork pigs....

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Roger Cartwright — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:04:24 GMT

Condi Rice is one of the brightest, most articulate people we've had as Sec. of State. It's too bad she is demonized for doing her job. It's also a shame we can't have people like John Bolton in a position where he can look out for this country,as he did so well at the UN, simply because of the politics. One politician, with less than stellar credentials in foreign policy kept Bolton out, with full knowledge that if his name came to the full senate he would be approved (but why worry about what the rest of the country's elected leaders want?), and continues to talk badly about Ms. Rice. Not to worry though - this country will prevail in spite of such behavior.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Bill Mortimer Pacoima , ca. — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:09:12 GMT

Half of our nation wishes to rush back to a pre 911 mentality. If Islamofacism succeds, we are only 3 or so major US shopping mall suicide bombs away from a depression which will dwarf 1929 when all the soccer moms hunker down at home. We need to take the fight to THEM. Press on Condi, press on.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

M. R., Texas — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:10:15 GMT

For anyone who believes Condi Rice to be stupid, I simply ask you to delve into her background. She is quite intelligent, certainly moreso than anyone making such an uneducated statement as calling her stupid.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ty Baker, Dallas, Texas — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:15:10 GMT

Condi has no "class". She can't even walk in those extra high heels she's always wearing! She's not the real thing. It's no wonder the world has no respect for the U.S. anymore while we continue to send over these muppets! And to "john"- I think it's great that Pelosi went over there. This is a free world, and diplomacy is not a sole right of the administration!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

B. Rogers, Fishkill, NY — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:17:35 GMT

Who side are you idiots on. All you want to do is Bash Bush. You forget that we have enemies. Go ahead bury your head in the sand. I'm sick of you Morons. At least Bush tried to do something while you all stand around and talked about it and patted Clinton on the back for doing nothing.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ed, Portland — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:20:37 GMT

lest we not forget: the middle east is a mess precisely BECAUSE of people like Condoleezza Rice and Donald Rumsfeld. Even if she was capable of demonstrating a bit of stage presence ("smoothing things over"), so what? The big picture is: America's blind support for Israel (while they crap on the Palestinians) has caused the entire Middle East to hate us, Iranians included. We are there for the OIL and you know it.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Sean — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:24:00 GMT

RICE DOESN'T KNOW THE FIRST THING ABOUT DIPLOMACY OR STATECRAFT. WHY? BECAUSE IT'S NOT HER. THAT'S NOT WHO SHE IS!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Russell Pompa — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:24:47 GMT

The Middle East is no place for a woman to be presenting any type of diplomacy. That area of the world think of women as one of their animals. We need a male to be our representitive. What exactly has Ms. Rice done to promote herself as a diplomat? In God We Trust VFW American

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Michael, Worcester, MA — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:31:01 GMT

I sense some resentment in this message board. Condi is probably the single most capable person in the entire administration. She does her job and that means doing what the boss says, if you disagree with your employer in public what would happen? She is not a lacky, but a good employee who does what is asked of her. For those that criticize her do you have a better way of implementing the administration's forgien policy or even the qualifications to be considered for it. It seems that people take the hard work of our government officials for granted and further when they LOSE an election in the ELECTORAL COLLEGE(yes the pres is elected in the Electoral College not the popular vote Mr. Gore) they result to juvinile name calling rather than offering alternative viewpoints on issues or God-forbid ideas on how to fix the problems that they percive. Comeon people GROW UP! Condi is an Excellent Sec. of State and I would not vote for her if she where to run for President or Vice-President.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Gordon — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:32:00 GMT

Condi for pres. I would vote for her way before any other REP and even before voting Mrs. Clinton

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Liong,London,UK — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:35:20 GMT

Peace agreements outside US? How about ASEAN, APEX non-agression pacts, Phillipunes, Singapore-I could go on.Rice is one of the most capable foreign ministers you have in these troubled times.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

g hiatt, Richland, Wa. — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:37:59 GMT

Ms Rice is absoutley awesome, hillary would loose by huge margines, Should she decide to become our next President. Poor democrats.....you just have nothing too offer except high gas prices,huge tax increases, open borders for free, your so predictable and self centered.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ed, Portland — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:38:52 GMT

hey, b. rogers, the REASON we have enemies in the middle east is BECAUSE of morons like Rice. We need somone who GENUINELY wants to have peace in the middle east. Our "enemies" hate us because we have been exploiting them and because we try to intimidate them or because we invade whenever the hell we feel like it. Think about it.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

John Conrad — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:40:04 GMT

Give the devil his (her) due. Yeah, she's W's lap dog, but she got this one right.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Miguel A Veras — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:41:28 GMT

You're all blankly blind. People who murder and incite murder are murders - no matter where there are from. I think we need to label people as people and that is it. People are the problems not Condi Rice, or Bush - PEOPLE. Americans need to wake up to the fact the people want to kill us and stop the Bush bashing. Every human in america is guilty of the war - NOT just BUSH. Saddam gone takes a Person who murdered out of the way. Bush kills based on LAW. These people kill based on race. Wake up America and support your friggin country.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

John — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:43:28 GMT

the problem isn't that she's black or that she's a woman! the problem is that she isn't sincere; she's not for real; she has been in d.c. too long and has inner-beltway think and uses too much rhetoric. if you watch either Rice or Bush on t.v., it's like they are in la-la land, completely removed from reality.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Andy White Texas — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:44:16 GMT

I can correctly state that most of you arent even qualified to shine her shoes, much less tell her how to do her job.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Murray Hills, Auckland, NZ & Florida USA — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:55:06 GMT

It is sad that someone of such tremendous talent and intellect no matter whether Rep or Dem, male or female, black or white should be so shamelessly rediculed by her fellow citizens for serving their country. As a non-American that (legally) lives and works in the US on a consistent basis I have been amazed and saddened by the rabid excesses of a opposition party desiring control at any cost (truth & civility included) and an Executive that has so capitualted to a bunker mentality that it has lost the courage to truly lead and communicate openly (and yes also honestly) with it's citizenry. The US is like a dog chewing it's own leg - it's time it stopped! We have much to thank the US for (including the Bush Administration), as much as some despise its might across all areas of endeavour, my Father's would have been forced to becomes Japanese and my mothers parent driven out of their homes by the Syrian army if it weren't for the bravery of the US fighting man and the courage of its Presidents. Ms Rice is a class act, shame that some are too poor of spirit to see, and so willing to give into hate.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

M. Fisher, Columbus, OH — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:58:09 GMT

Mr. White, What credentials do you possess allowing you to correctly state that none of the other responders can shine C. Rice's shoes? I think unless you are a relative or have some long standing friendship or working relationship with the Secretary of State we really can't take your word for that statement. Perhaps you would like to explain yourself. For me, I need to see more than one instance of her answering questions from Arab reporters to assure me that she is a top notch Secretary of State. She is much too tied to G. Bush (a Bushie?) to convince me of her expertise with one performance.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Steve Jones, Holiday, Florida — Mon, 07 May 2007 19:59:24 GMT

Ah, and a well staged plan of action it was! Or - shall we call a staged act, what it truly was - a well planned stage act! We, in the United States, have witnessed Condi during an impromptu moment of questions and answers, and within the first few twists-n-turns of diplomatic mumbo-jumbo, have found ourselves with a look of bewilderment. ( Now, she scorns the assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs? Bwahahaha, what an elementary Kodak moment that must have been to pull-off, to appease a room full of people, for which she was there to coddle! Give it a break, if anything is farther from the face of truth, Americans are NOT unpopular to the Arab world due to “sheer obtuseness and poor manners”, (ever been to France?) - America is unpopular in MOST places in the world due to the pure fakes, and lies that they are spoon fed by American politicians. - And in the final Act, The Great Satan was Transformed back into Uncle Sam. Think about it!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Violence Breeds Violence, so Stop It! — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:05:27 GMT

The ones to blame are those in the Military Industrial Complex and the Neo-Cons that wanted to take us to war (Rove, Wolfowitz, etc.) Bush, Cheney & Rice can also be blamed for being so stupid as to go along with the plan. I thought G. Tenet did a great job showing how the administration was just chomping at the bit to go to war, looking for any possible evidence that fit their claim. what losers! what an abuse of power!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Hmmm... — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:07:07 GMT

The author, Fletcher, must have some personal vendetta against McCormack. Maybe he's jelous he's not a part of "the bubble".

Rice displays deft diplomacy

faborius, new york city,ny — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:15:25 GMT

Condi had everything handed to her?? You got to be kidding, i guess bush gave her her masters and PHD right?? Condi is a solid Secretary of state just like colin powell was....to some bush haters bush can do no right...if bush sends troops to darfur and the genocide ends he will be called an occupier..if he doesnt send troops but waits for the UN.. the same numbskulls will say its cos sudan doesnt have oil...For GODS sake people we are on the same side...i voted for Bill clinton, al gore and GW bush....but the rheotoric coming from the dems this days i find it hard to even consider voting for them anymore ( apart from joe biden, joe liberman) and this coming from an african american man

Rice displays deft diplomacy

What's the Truth? — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:20:02 GMT

How can anyone possibly support Ms. Rice in light of the fact that she has been a part of a very small executive team which has: (1) caused America to go to war on the false premise of WMD; (2) caused hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis to die; (3) damaged the reputation of the U.S. in the eyes of the broader world; and (4) forced an event that will ultimately cost trillions-- monies that could have been spent on health care or education or world poverty. And it's only now that she's stopped her childish stubbornness and agreed to speak with Syria. Hello?! Wake up America!! It's a fact that our foreign policy has absolutely s*cked in the Middle East and Rice has only made it worse!

Rice displays deft diplomacy

TESTRUN#1 — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:22:55 GMT

the big picture is that things have gotten much worse while rice and the cronies have been in power. not better, only worse. period. indisputable fact. we should hold elections in nov. 07, one year early, just so the world doesn't have to endure this for one more year.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Waldo, C'ville, VA — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:27:56 GMT

Oh my goodness. Condi Rice is a moron and insensitive and does not know what she is doing in the job she currently holds???? These are the words of the truly ignorant. But ignorancy is curable by education and the putting aside of racial and political bias. Condi Rice is one of the brightest people that we have here in the US and this white Southern Boy would be proud to vote for her as President or Vice-President. PS--calling Condi a lap dog only shows the mentality of the writer and his/her racial insecurity. Spoken well, ironically, for a Clinton or Osamba groupie.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

HARRY ANGEL, NEW YORK, NEW YORK — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:34:21 GMT

For the love of God. Whats with these war lovers in this blog..."ISLAMOFASCISM" "machete IED wielding (wah?!) suicide bombers", "get your head out of the sand"..."support your friggin country"(like that shows just how much respect you have for it yourself) For pete's sake..where did you guys last see these islamofascists and machete wielders apart from fox news? get a life for god's sake..do you hear voices too? do you think the neighbours are aliens? do you talk to yourself...gesture to yourself in the mirror maybe?..see a shrink would you...DO YOU THINK YOU CAN GO TO EVERY SINGLE PLACE IN THE WORLD AND "CIVILISE" IT? STOP THINKING THAT OUR MORALS (OR LACK OF THEM)OUR VALUES AND OUR WAYS ARE THE ONLY VIABLE ONES AND SHOULD BE ADOPTED BY EVERYONE. LETS CIVILISE OURSELVES FIRST, SORT OUT IMMIGRATION, THE OUT OF CONTROL CLIMATE, POVERTY (YES, AMERICAN POVERTY, THE ONE PEOPLE DISCOVERED BECAUSE OF HURRICANE KATRINA)GUN CONTROL, THE POLITICAL MEDDLING BY BIG BUSINESS, RACISM AND RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION.LETS MAKE AMERICA STRONG AND PROSPEROUS INSTEAD OF HALLIBURTON.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Karen Karpie — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:41:45 GMT

I would be interested in learning the identity of the Iranians who supposedly nodded in agreement as Rice spoke, as well as what media outlets they worked for and exactly what she said that they were agreeing with. And, what questions did the "Arab journalists" ask? Until we know those facts, it is difficult to judge whether this was a "tour de force of intuition and explanation."

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Lynn Evans, Cortez, Colorado — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:44:49 GMT

Steve Jones is closest to right. Dr. Rice is smart, I did not say wise or right, just smart. Watch for the smart manipulators who have done such an excellent job up to now.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Maria Durr Clinton, Miss — Mon, 07 May 2007 20:55:27 GMT

Dr. Condi Rice is a very smart and gracious Lady, I think she does a great job, and tell me why we have so many many "haters" out there, I am an imigrant, been here 45 years, I have also been in alot of other countries, since my husband served this country, no where else can one openly say all the hateful name callings to ward our President and his staff, without being punished, shame on you out there, shame shame shame, if you all dont like it LEAVE -

Rice displays deft diplomacy

david cavagnaro, Stockton, Ca. — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:16:15 GMT

Miss Rice's job is one of the most diffcult jobs someone could take on in this world today. If we were to help her more instead of showing the world how unwilling we are to support our goverment. It would make us appear to be the United States, not the un-United States.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Nate Maher, Granite Falls, WA — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:35:28 GMT

In response to Kelly from Troy,MI. Sec of State Rice's job is dealing with foreign policy. Nancy Pelosi tried to take over this role, and she had no business doing that.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ron Phoenix AZ — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:38:07 GMT

To those of you who are complaining about a "lack of civility" on this site, let me beg to remind you that we have Americans dying and some 20,000 wounded because of the failed policies of this administration. This woman is a POLITICAL appointee. Her past experience was at the RUSSIAN desk of the State Department. She does not and never did have the credentials.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Ron Phoenix, AZ — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:46:36 GMT

Frankly we could all do without the "infotainment" bubble and the rest of the overpaid sycophantic so called Fourth Estate. I have a 16 year old daughter who can ask more incisive questions than these "maroons." And yes Martin, I am refering to you.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Doug, Idaho — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:54:40 GMT

The bash Bush and anybody with him crowd is certainly having fun with this one. Condi Rice is probably the single most intelligent and well qualified individual to hold the office in the last 100 years. Her skills dwarf Madeline Albright and some others who have held the post. Colin Powell was excellent as well. Certainly wish some of the posters on here had anywhere near the intelligence and at least some of the appreciation of the extraordinarily tough job she has. But that is what you get with a blog - most folks have no idea what they are talking about. Thank God we don't run foreign policy through such folks for approval.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Howieguy, Deerfield Beach, Fl — Mon, 07 May 2007 21:59:23 GMT

It's nice to know someone in the Administration is both intelligent and sensitive. To ridicule her loyalty to her boss, the President, is totally off base.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

Tanja, Arizona — Mon, 07 May 2007 22:32:57 GMT

I think Mrs Rice demonstrated the one thing most female managers have and most alpha-males don't: intuition and a sense of what lives under her audience. Good for her. I don't think it will change my opinion about what she did during the rest of her career under the Bush administration though. It is ofcourse one more reason why we could use a female president. GO HILARY, LOL. Or better even: go JANET NAPOLITANO!!!! And no I'm not a manhater. I love men!!!! Well most of them anyway.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

REALIST — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:02:04 GMT

IT SEEMS TO ME THAT INSTEAD OF US DISCUSSING THE CURRENT ISSUES IT IS MORE LIKE A BASH FEST OF THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION. THATS RIGHT.. IT IS BETER FOR OUR PRESIDENT TO BE GETTING HEAD (CLINTON) IN THE OVAL OFFICE THEN DEALING WITH REAL ISSUES THAT IS ROCKING OUR CURRENT WORLD POLITICS. IT IS BECAUSE OF THOSE OVAL OFFICE VISITS WE HAVE THIS HORNETS NEST. OH YEA...BUT NONE OF YOU WANT TO HEAR THAT. YOU NEED TO COME TO GRIPS THAT WE AS AMERICANS ARE IN IT TOGETHER SHOW SOME LOVE WILL YOU? THIS MIDDLEEAST TURMOIL HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR HUNDREDS OF YEARS-THINK ABOUT IT WOULD AL GORE HAVE DONE ANY BETTER? WHAT ARE THE DEMO'S DOING TO MAKE IT BETTER? THAT'S RIGHT SITTING ON THERE A$$, ARMS CROSSED THROWING A FIT ABOUT HOW UNQUALIFIED OUR PRESIDENT IS INSTEAD OF PARTNERING WITH HIM. I DON'T GET THE ANGER IT DOESN'T SEEM PRODUCTIVE TO ME. I PERSONALLY DON'T AGREE WITH THE WAR SITUATION IN IRAQ BUT THE LEVEL OF DISREPECT TO THE PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE REALLY IS SHAMEFUL.

Rice displays deft diplomacy

get your heads out of your asses you Bush clowns — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:06:00 GMT

To all you tools who call people here "stupid" in relation to Condi, e.g. Lori H., G. Hiatt among others: My god, don't any of you Bush clowns have spell checker? Please, before you shoot off your mouths about that which you have no clue, at least check your spelling and grammar! Makes you morons look even worse, which is quite a feat for Bush patsies. Poor America, getting dumber by the nanosecond with the king dufus in charge to lead the idiot masses.

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So tired of you neo-con tools (Get a grip!) — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:08:48 GMT

Not surprising to see constiuents of the "Blame Clinton" camp here. (B. Rogers, for example) Hey tool, did it occur to you that maybe there was no terrorist attack on US soil during his term because he WAS doing his job? Please, let it go, Bush is going down in flames and you can't blame Clinton anymore. Everyone knows the real reason is because he's a jacka$$.

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JERRY BROWN, DULUTH, GA. — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:45:22 GMT

i HAVE SPOKEN TO MISS RICE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, AND SHE IS NOBODY'S PUPPET. sHE IS COURAGOUS AND STASNDS HEWR GROUND, IS IS TREMENOUSLY WELL VERSED IN NEARLY EVERY SUBJECT, INCLUDING SPORTS. sHE IS LOYAL TO HER "BOSS" BUT THAT IS THE ROLL SHE WAS APPOINTED TO. sHE IS SESATIVE TO HER SURROUNDINGS, AS YOU POINTED OUT IN YOUR SYNAPSYS, BUT IS TYPICALLY CONFOUNDED BY PEOPLE LIKE THE ASSISTANT. wE SHOULD BE PROUD OF HER AND HER PATRIOTIC POSSITION EVEN THOUGH SHE IS STILL ON LEAVE FROM STANFORD AND IS DOING A DIFFICULT JOB WITH LITTLE PAY AND REWARD TO SERVE OUR COUNTRY.

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John Clinton — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:50:54 GMT

Occasionally, I read these comments following an article and as I do I become more and more convinced that the US's image abroad suffers because of you Femocrats. Indeed when I lived overseas in continental Europe during the Clinton era I was often told by far left Europeans how much they dislike Americans but love Bill Clinton. When I left, when Bush was in office, it was how much that hated Bush (and no comments on how much they hated Americans otherwise they'd be painted as bigots and in a populist society of elistists wannabes that is a fate worse then death). My advice is for the State Department to ban travel to foreign countries by snooty and elitist Femocrats and you will see our reputation improve quickly and immensely. And I'd would vote for Condi Rice in a heartbeat too. Were she a Femocrat you can bet they would be crowing about how she could only obtain such a status with the Femocrats as opposed to those Jack-booted Neo-NAZI Christian Republicans because of the Femocrats 'enlightened and tolerant patronization of minorities'. Darling, how gauche.

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Lisa, Chicago, IL — Mon, 07 May 2007 23:54:27 GMT

Ms. Rice is a class act. She's not right 100% of the time but who is? Give her credit for working hard for all of us. She represents us well. I find it sad that we're always beating up on each other, not listening to 'the other side' or even trying to work together. Our behavior must make the terrorists shake with laughter.

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Steve Hampton, Missouri — Tue, 08 May 2007 00:02:35 GMT

To Murray Hills, thank you for such a good post. I wish all Americans could see it through the eyes of someone that has been there.

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cb, Jacksonville, Fl — Tue, 08 May 2007 02:03:52 GMT

C Rice is "much too tied to Bush"? Well, hello? Her job is to articulate the position of the American Administration. Last I looked, G Bush had a little something to do with the Administration. She can't just go out there and say whatever she feels like saying that day unlike someone from Congress that will remain nameless here. It's her job people, and I for one think she has done it commendably well.

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Jim, Denver, CO — Tue, 08 May 2007 03:22:08 GMT

Maybe Bush and Cheney are finally being seen for the incompetent leaders they are. Condi's got nothing to loose and everything to gain. Mutual respect is what she practiced with the Chinese in 2001 with spy plane incident and I'll bet now she feels as free and confident as she did then. Remember America it wasn't long ago (just last week if you listened to Rush) that if you opposed Bush/Cheney you were strung up a tree and called a liberal, anti-american, anti patriot and fired! You really think she'd do that to so many who look up to her as a role model?? She's smart like a cat.

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Ruth Lorraine, Allentown, PA — Tue, 08 May 2007 03:28:34 GMT

Miss Rice is perhaps one of the best diplomats this country has seen since the 1920'a and the days of lazzion faire economics. And please keep in mind people that it wasn't either the first President Bush or the Second President Bush to start the strife that has riddled the Middle East all of the years. It was the Europeans attempting to assuage their guilt over the carnage of World War II. They created this mess and have left it to us to clean it up. And if the Congressmen can get behind the policies of the President instead of discussing surrender like some old nanny goats maybe we can win this war. However if they continually insist on TREASON, like dear sweet Nancy Pelosi, we are going to lose.

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Dan I, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 08 May 2007 03:37:41 GMT

It seems like most comments I've read so far go along party lines: people either hate Bush/bash Rice or like Bush/support Rice. I have to say I am not crazy about the Bush administration's accomplishments, or his intelligence, by a far margin. However, Dr. Rice strikes me as an intelligent, capable person, who is doing a great job of 'explaining the policy' and putting a good face on it, even when she is handed a poor policy to start with. She does not make the policies, but she is a far better diplomat than Bush can ever dream to be.

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T Oakes, Greensboro, NC — Tue, 08 May 2007 04:08:49 GMT

To the moron who asked the question about why there was not some kind of outrage to Ms. Rice talking to Syria as it was when Ms. Pelosi made a visit there...Or should I say an "illegal" visit...Ms. Rice's job function is to do that very thing...Secretary of State...She is...IS the liasion to address policy with other countries...Ms Pelosi belongs in the capitol building "banging" her gavel?...Working on her "100" day plan which has not gotten anywhere...

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Bob Richardson, Birmingham, Al. — Tue, 08 May 2007 04:51:37 GMT

Because of the timing of Doctor Rice's appointment, I believe that she was set up. She doesn’t have the background for this position, and it appears that she stepped into the job cold turkey without any grooming by Bush’s cabinet. Colin Powell and her sort of met at the door on his way out. I believe that this was a deliberate act by the Bush/Channey administration to make African American's look inadequate or inferior as a ploy to cover up the deliberate acts that the administration had orchestrated prior to her taking office.

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Karl Bratcher, Florence, Oregon — Tue, 08 May 2007 04:58:08 GMT

Rice isn't stupid, but this comment board is!

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JD, Marion, KY (yes Kentucky) — Tue, 08 May 2007 05:46:55 GMT

I have been impressed with Condi Rice. She is the only member of the current administration who operates in something other than "deer in the headlights" mode (other than Cheney, and he's just plain scary). However, it will take much more than Ms. Rice or any other political representative to cure our ills. Yes, I support our troops, but they are fighting an ill-conceived war brought about by emotion, not informed intelligence. Our brave soldiers are put in harm's way with inappropriate battle tactics and equipment designed only for "known" targets, not the skulking bodies of hatred shrouded in TNT hiding around every corner. We have to wake up, my friends. These folks hate us, as do many others in the world. We've become totally self-centered, refusing to believe that our way of life could come to an end. I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would witness America thought of in the way it is viewed today. I hope and pray that the next administration, be it Democrat OR Republican, will be able to bring us back into a position of respect in the world - somehow, someway . . . Condi Rice is not the be-all, end-all, but she is one person I am proud to have representing America.

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David Lester, Moorseville IN — Tue, 08 May 2007 05:58:16 GMT

It sounds like we just simply are an unhappy, spoiled bunch of kids who have not learned proper respect for those who have been elected or chosen to perform the tremendously burdensome tasks assigned. Furthermore we are charged by the Holy Scriptures to pray for those who rule over us. Can we expect our leaders to fulfill their obligations while we shirk ours?

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hal- orange county,ca. — Tue, 08 May 2007 06:00:39 GMT

Rice can-Pelosi can't.

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Murray Dickinson, Sydney, Australia — Tue, 08 May 2007 06:40:47 GMT

Curtis Watson, great point. Lets see an itemised list of the US's contributions, in fact of any administration (not just the US) that tubthumps what a great job it's doing. Any survey of approval or disapproval should be results based, ie, number of internal incidents in theatres of unrest, casualties and fatalities, trade with nominal protagonists, before and after. Show respondents the figures, THEN ask 'em whether any administration is worthy of approval. Never mind the spin BS.

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Mary Basombrio — Tue, 08 May 2007 08:44:31 GMT

I felt that our Sec.of State should have been over in the mideast significantly earlier. It was a time for us to be present.I was glad that a major leader,Senator Pelosi,third in line to the Presidency,flew to the Middle East with Republicans and Democrats.Time was of the essence.Dr. Rice,I felt was there with too little too late.Honestly, I feel this adminisration as it has worked or not worked together, will never give us a true picture of the abilities of Ms.Rice for this position.

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Patriotic in Buffalo, NY — Tue, 08 May 2007 14:20:23 GMT

I applaud Ms. Rice and our current administration as they are faced with dangers to the U.S. that are biblical proportions - Revelations. I truly believe that the human race is bent on self-destruction, either by WMD or damaging our environment beyond repair. My heart goes out to our children and grandchildren because at the rate we're going, what, if anything, will they be left with. As for me, if and when the end is here, I am ready to meet my Maker, however, I cannot give sufficient explanation for how we made such a mess of the many blessings He had provided us - similar to Adam & Eve. I suggest we Americans try to get it together and truly become the UNITED STATES before it's too late - haven't enough of our brothers and sisters gave their lives??? How much more will it take - perhaps when it hits close to our individuals homes we'll drop all this petty nonsense of bickering whether Ms. Rice is doing her job or not - the only question I have is: What would any of us do in her shoes??? Let's not lose sight of the big picture: there is a war being waged and our U.S. brothers and sisters are giving their lives to provide the Iraqis with a freedom that we have enjoyed because of them. GOD BLESS AMERICA (and may He continue to do so for our future generations)!

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Factoid — Tue, 08 May 2007 15:24:41 GMT

Ms. Rice is a lapdog. She is not an independent thinker. She has not accomplished ONE thing as secretary of state.

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Lane Barrett — Tue, 08 May 2007 23:11:44 GMT

B. Rogers can definitely see things clearly past the Liberal smoke. And from the Clintons, lots of smoke but unfortunately never the right fire.

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John, Atlanta, Ga — Wed, 09 May 2007 03:33:53 GMT

Please, give Ms. Rice credit for a job well done. She is bright, dedicated and very well educated. Only people who have not been to college could ever believe a college degree, much less a phd, could be handed to someone on a silver platter. As far as destabilizing the middle east, we can put that burden squarely on Pres. Jimmy Carter. Bush bashing is easy to do especially when our elected officials find it so satisfying. Besides we do not have two parties in Washington we only have one party "The Washington Party" and they only represent their own self interest. Ms. Rice acts with conviction, intelligence and loyalty to this country. More than I can say for most Americans who find critism of leadership much more confortable than leading. We just find it easier to follow the pack because no decisions need to be made and the view remains the same. I am proud to be an American and admire leaders with conviction.

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john florida — Wed, 09 May 2007 15:00:11 GMT

Just a thought: i was in europe six months ago (italy) and most of the people that i met there had nothing but questions about the U.S. and the thing that struck me was that the people there do watch and listen to everything they can get about us. i had gotten into a discussion about how europe cannot have any respect for us whem we don't respect ourselves.we have a group of polititions that don't even respect the chain of command ie pelosi who has been under the radar after her little trip. you have a goup that takes facts that the U.N. has given and twist them into pure bull(hundred of thousands killed in Iraq)the move on crowd is here and posting all the nonsense they can. some people think that supporting our country is treason. you have people that can only name call and parrot left wing talking points. so let's try this again WE WENT TO WAR BECAUSE THE CIA UNDER TENENT (CLINTON'S GUY) WAS SURE OF HIS AND OTHER COUNTRIES INFO WAS RIGHT.THE SAME LIBERALS THAT WANT OUT OF IRAQ NOW VOTED FOR THE WAR BEFORE THEY VOTED AGAINST IT.THAT BRILIANT MIND THAT DECLARED THE WAR LOST IS THE MAN IN CHARGE OF THE SENATE.HERE ARE SOME INTERSTING FACTS: FRANCE JUST ELECTED A PRO WEST PRESIDENT BECAUSE THEY SEE US AS A FRIEND AND SEE OUR COUNTRY'S MODEL IN A BETTER LIGHT AND THE WAR IS STILL GOING ON,SO YOU CAN'T BLAME THE WAR FOR OUR NOT BEING POPULAR IN EUROPE. GERMANY DID THE SAME. THE POINT TO THIS IS THAT THE WORLD IS WATCHING US AND IF WE KEEP ON BEING A NATION DEVIDED THEY HAVE NO ONE TO SUPPORT BECAUSE THEY DON'T KNOW WHO WE ARE. THE SAME PEOPLE THAT BASH BUSH AND HIS PEOPLE ARE THE SAME PEOPLE THAT WOULD NOT SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES (BECAUSE THEY SEE THAT AS STUPID)ARE THE SAME PEOPLE THAT LOVE TO CALL OTHER AMERICANS EVERY NAME THEY CAN THINK OF.TO SHOW MORE OF THIS DOUBLE STANDARD THE N.Y. SCHOOL BOARD HAS JUST GIVEN THE GO AHAED TO BUILDING AN ISLAMIC SCHOOL IN N.Y. CITY. WHAT HAPPEND TO THE SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE WHERE IS THE ACLU ? AS FOR CONDI SHE IS IN THE MIDDLE OF A STORM AND HALF OF IT COMES FROM OUR OWN POLITITIONS GIVING THE OPPOSITE RESPONSE TO OUR FOREIGN POLICY. THEN YOU HAVE THE SHE IS STUPID CROWD SHOW UP AND THE TRUTH IS THEY CAN'T HOLD HER SHORTS.IS SHE THE BEST WE HAVE I DON'T KNOW, IS SHE THE WORST WE HAVE HAD I DON'T THINK SO.IS THIS THE WORST PRESIDENT WE HAVE HAD, NOT BY A LONG SHOT.BUT LOVE HIM AND HIS PEOPLE OR NOT : HE HAS NOT BLINKED ONCE WHEN IT CAME TO PROTECTING ALL OF US.AND THIS FAILED POLICY NONSENSE WOULD CARRY A LITTLE MORE WEIGHT IF IT WAS FOLLOWED UP BY AN IDEA AS TO HOW TO CORRECT THE FAILURE.I WANT OUR PEOPLE TO PULL TOGETHER I WANT OUR POLITICIANS TO PULL TOGETHER IN OUR BEST INTEREST NOT THEIRS. WE ARE LOOKED AT AS IDIOTS BY THE WORLD WHEN WE SEND MIXED MESSAGES TO THE WORLD AND THEN WE WONDER WHY WE ARE NOT LIKED.IT'S NOT THAT THEY DON'T LIKE US IT'S THAT THEY CAN'T FIGURE OUT WHAT THE HELL WE STAND FOR SO THEY PULL AWAY. JUST A THOUGHT.

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William York, Lindale, TX — Wed, 09 May 2007 15:24:20 GMT

Reading back on all the comments, both pro and con, brings to mind the fact that the US is on the downward spiral because of the lack of civility and intelligence of the general populace. Apparently somebody voted for the present administration in the last election. Live with it. If you don't agree with their policies, vote against them in the next election. In the meantime, shut up and realize that we are one nation, and are all in this together. A little respect for the office of the elected president, the military, the administration, congress and your nation would be helpful. And yes, diplomacy is the job of the administration only. Whether you are Democrat, Republican, Independent, or simply a non-voting rabble rouser, a little respect for your country will go a long way in repairing the mess that we have gotten ourselves into.

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Raghav Chandra, Delhi, — Wed, 09 May 2007 19:38:34 GMT

Condeleeza Rice is a seasoned diplomat. Unlike her predecessors like Madeline Albright and others, she does her job with conviction and panache. In my country, India (that has a strong connection with the Middle East and dealing with Islamic terrorism),too, she is perceived as very mature and competent. I would recommend her critics to read the comments(blogs) on www.scratchmysoul.com about her.

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Robert L. Brown, Tucson, AZ — Wed, 09 May 2007 21:43:53 GMT

As a staunch supporter of the current administration and their policies (only wish it was tougher, more vocal and persuasive vs. "adamant") I am heartened by the tone of most of the blogs I have just read. To quote a famous line "We shall overcome...." we conservative, constructive, thinking people will overcome the "liberal" misguided folks. With the email and internet part of our fabric, we "people" now have a tool to overcome the pathetic press, and WE WILL!!

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Daisy M. Hazzard, Gnd, West Indies — Thu, 10 May 2007 16:52:46 GMT

It's amazing how much Americans love to hate themselves. That's total self-absorption for you. Arabs? Who are they?

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bob, texas — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 18:42:21 GMT

Well said, John Floida and William York. I have spent over 30 years in our military, half of which was overseas, and the critics over there have never changed, no matter who the President was. The only thing that changed was how their media reported on one administration versus the other. If we do not come together and at least respect each others right to an opinion without name calling soon, we might as well throw in the towel. The hostility to sitting presidents has gotten out of hand. It is time for the uninformed public to tone it down and try to get the facts, and not just from the liberal or conservative media outlets. We are losing the ability to discuss and solve problems without screaming at each other. Our politicians short and long term plans are all about how to stay in office rather than what is good for the country. Hopefully we will elect a new team that will be able to turn it around ( it will take a long time).

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Pat — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 20:52:21 GMT

Hey Kelly Troy it sounds like you have no clue how our government works. Congress deals with domestic issues and money, basically and the President's administration conducts foreign affairs and are the single point of contact for the United States. Nancy Pelosi does not represent the United States in foreign affairs... only the administration can... you can find this written in the constitution... that document Liberals hate. She acted out of line and looked like an idiot and didn't even understand that she was being manipulated by the Syrians. By the way, Syria is a terrorist sponsoring nation ran by a despot. If it is too hard to understand the full verbiage of the constitution I believe that info is also in the cliff notes version you'll find at all leading Universities in the United States.

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johnnie steele, panama city, fl — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 16:48:58 GMT

As a recently retired senior ranking military officer, I find it truly amazing that some of you are attacking this brave woman's character. To equate her loyalty and dedication to the Bush administration that of a "lap dog" is just shy of being the biggest damn idiot in the world. To all of you who oppose her incredible sacrifice to this country,get a clue...Putting her life on the line, deploying to some of the most dangerous places in the world, and to have some of you make condescending comments about her is truly amazing. Those of you who are so quick to discredit her abilities, please step up since you claim to be experts in the art of diplomacy. I am currently severing in one of the most volatile Provices in Afghanistan, and am constantly sickened by idiots who are always complaining and likely have not served on damn day in the miliary or some other form of gov't service. Those of us who are supporters of Condi are waiting for you to show us the way. Step up or shut the hell up...cowards!

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Morgan, Yuma, AZ — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 22:20:27 GMT

It's amazing how much of a landslide Bush won by, but now it seems everyone wants to jump on the bandwagon and bash his administration. I voted for him and serve in our country's military. I am going to Iraq soon and look forward to serve. Condoleezza Rice is no Colin Powell, but we cannot hold that against her. I think she is doing an outstanding job in the position that she was appointed. She is firm and stands up for the administration that she represents. You liberal, hate everything Bush, mongers might see that as being a lap dog. I see it as being loyal. In the Marine Corps, we have a motto; "Semper Fidelis", Latin for Always Faithful. I question how faithful a lot of these bashers are. Definately NOT the type that died in the Revolutionary War to secure our freedoms. More the Benedict Arnold side of the fence. Just my thoughts. If you are offended, then you may be the people I'm talking about.

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Michael Shirley, Reno, Nevada — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 01:45:04 GMT

For all of the people who are a bit too critical of Dr. Rice, perhaps we all should remember something. Henry Kissenger once defined an expert as, "a person who articulates the needs of people in power." Dr. Rice has the same job. I don't think that she's any happier with the current Iraq policy than anybody else is. Frankly, it's a stupid policy and we shouldn't have allowed Bush and the Neocons to roll us into that war. But she's not there to make the policy, she's there to articulate it. She pretty much was shifted out of policy creation business when she was exiled to the State Department, when Colin Powell saw the train wreck and quit. She no longer has daily on demand access to the President. She's got no control really, even of what goes on below the Undersecretary of State level. So blaming her for this war, is neither fair nor accurate. If you want to blame somebody, Paul Wolfowitz and Dick Cheney and Mr. Bush himself are probably more culpable. Still, she has a choice. She can quit, or she can stick to the job and try to have a positive effect on things. She has my respect for doing the latter, even though it means dealing with the results of having people in power whose reach far exceeds their grasp.

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John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 18:05:14 GMT

The area around the pentagon is a no-fly zone. It was attacked on sept 11. There's only a handful of people who can authorize planes to NOT be shot down by fighters before the reach the building. Wake up people...

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Proud American who will not run, Apple Valley, CA — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 22:42:05 GMT

Ya know what is funny, When Lincoln was president the said the same stuff about him that you are all saying about Bush... My son has served, talk to someone who has been there and they will tell you we need to finish the job and they know why we went. Thank God there are people like Bush who stand firm in their convictions.. I would hate to have any of you run this country of ours... Stay the course and show some courage.

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chris, phx, AZ — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 20:05:06 GMT

M. Fisher,

You may be right technically that Mssr. White can't definitively say that none of us are fit to shine Ms. Rice's shoes, I will grant you that. But, I will bet a month's pay that he is right. Unless, of course, I missed your assignment to the U.N. or ambassador to China...its possible, JUST NOT FREAKIN' LIKELY! In short, even if she is not the best sec. of state we have ever had, she is an exceptionally multi-talented and accomplished human being who, I again will quite safely bet, has accomplished more in her life, even without being sec of state, than any knuckle-dragger who posts on here, including yours truly. So lighten up when speaking of your betters. Unless you have figured out a new way to convert negative commmentary to gasoline, you likely hold no candle to her accomplishments.

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Jim in Ohio — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 20:39:22 GMT

I love the comment made in a previous message that Condi is responsible for the mess in the middle east...damn didnt know she was alive 800 years ago! This mess has been going on since the beginning of recorded time...but of course it is all Rices fault...lol WHAT A JOKE! Wake up moron! Condi is without a doubt a rose among thorns. I myself am a diehard republican and yes i voted for that eggheaded moron in office...god help us all! Just had to choose between the lesser of 2 evils. Hell I say let Condi run for president, I would vote for her in a heartbeat. Yes she is the mouthpeice of a moron right now, but that is her job. She is a very intelligent person period. Maybe its about time we put a female into office. She has the right mind set, intelligence and charisma we need to do the job. She sure cant do a worse job than Bush and I would take her any day over that thing they call Hillary. Hillary is a joke and a wanna be riding on the coatails of her husband. Condi has made it to where she is because she is a well educated, very well spoken individual. She has my utmost respect for trying to make that idiot Bush look like he can at least count to 10 without using his fingers (That in itself is one of the toughest jobs in the world). Just once I would like to see someone of her caliber run for office! Looks like I may have to vote democrat for the first time in my life! (cringe) Please god let the Republicans find a decent person to run! You can say what you want, your entitled to your opinion no matter how moronic it may be, but Rice is a rose among thorns! Her track record speaks for itself.

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Ken Kasten, Olathe, Kansas — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 18:35:45 GMT

The Secretary of State cannot work independently from the President, as he/she is a direct representative of his foreign policy. When the Secretary of State can no longer agree with the President and/or represent his policies to foreign heads of state, then they resign, as Colin Powell did.

Why do the Middle East countries hate the U.S.? Two major reasons come to mind. The first is that we are not an Islamic country. Until everyone in the U.S. has converted or died, we will be despised by the radical Islamic factions. The second is our penchant for exporting our decadent and amoral lifestyle throughout the world, mostly through the entertainment industry.
We will continue to be a target until we either defeat the radical Islamic groups, capitulate to their demands, or die. Such will be the fate of Europe too. Don't kid yourselves that our involvement with Isreal is the culprit.
Diplomacy does not work when your adversary considers anyone who is not Islamic to be the very devil. They are not interested in talking... only removing the evil from their world. When you have a cancer, you remove it. The disease is not cured by discussing it.

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Mary Ann, Wildwood NJ — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 22:12:24 GMT

What a pity that so many American citizens are so blind and hopelessly partisan. If Condi were a Democrat, the same people who are tearing her apart would be singing her praises. Ms Rice has handled a difficult task with intelligence and unusual insight. No matter what your political affiliations, honesty binds us to see the good in what someone does even if we do not totally agree with them and see the bad that people do whom we support. It is just this lack of individual thought and the development of a "follow the pack" mentality that is changing the nature of American politics sadly for the worse. Hopefully some intelligent and caring people will be able to think for themselves and help to change the terrible culture of negativism and blind partisanism in our political system today. Don't forget that most great powers are destroyed from forces within.

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joe,balto.MD — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 22:41:06 GMT

why was the press corps. that was traveling with rice have to be called on at all,since they are traveling with her they could ask their questions at any time.sounds like a staged news conference that the arabs picked right up on. condi being deft to pick it up .please you republicans are grasping for straws this is absurd.CONDI for president,yeah right.AMERICANS want this administration over,they have totally screwed us!!!!LYING SOBs!!!!

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joe,balto.MD — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 23:28:31 GMT

BUSH,CHENEY,and RICE lied this country into an unnecessary war where hundreds of thousands of innocent people have been killed.that is the reason I hate not only BUSH,CHENEY and RICE but anyone who supports this murder.they are no different than saddam and were his greatess enablers when he was doing what they wanted him to do for 20 years.SADDAM was hanged for what he did 20 years ago and I hope it does not take 20 years for BUSH to get his. All these good soldiers he lied into their deaths. THERE IS NO WAY HE BELIEVES IN GOD!!!!!