TweetDonald Rumsfeld Resigning as Defense Secretary
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
WASHINGTON — Donald H. Rumsfeld is stepping down as defense secretary and former CIA Director Robert Gates will be nominated to take his place.
Rumsfeld's resignation was the first Bush administration casualty after a midterm congressional election that sent at least 28 House Republicans packing and left the future of the Senate in limbo.
President Bush called Rumsfeld a trusted friend and patriot who had served his country well.
"Now after a series of thoughtful conversations, Secretary Rumsfeld and I agreed that the time had come for new leadership at the Pentagon," Bush said in an East Room press conference scheduled Tuesday night after election returns showed an incoming Democratic House majority.
"Don Rumsfeld has been a superb leader during a time of change. Yet he also appreciates the value of bringing in a fresh perspective during a critical period in this war," he said.
Rumsfeld's departures was a surprise to many after his office gave no indication earlier in the day that the congressional outcome would impact his decision. Just last week, Bush said he had full faith in Rumsfeld. Then again, he acknowledged Wednesday that he thought Republicans would retain the House.
Bush said Gates brings a long history of organization and national security credentials.
"He's served six presidents, from both political parties, and rose from an entry-level employee in the CIA to become the director of central intelligence," Bush said. Gates would have to be confirmed by the Senate, whose majority will be determined by one currently-contested election.
Bush told Iraqis not to be fearful by the changes in the United States or its own halting steps to democracy. He also warned terrorists not to start celebrating as a result of Rumsfeld's departure.
"Do not be joyful. Do not confuse the workings of our democracy with a lack of will. Our nation is committed to bringing you to justice. Liberty and democracy are the source of our strength," Bush said.
"To our men and women in uniform: don't be doubtful. America will always support you. Our nation is blessed to have men and women who volunteer to serve and are willing to risk their own lives for the safety of our fellow citizens," he said.
• Click here to visit YOU DECIDE 2006, FOXNews.com's complete election center.
Rumsfeld plans to deliver a long-scheduled speech on the global war on terrorism at Kansas State University on Thursday. Ruff said he did not know whether Rumsfeld would address the midterm election results in that speech.