Bush lauds Powell, rips ‘speculation’(but won't say if he's staying)

[RamboLiberal]

http://www.msnbc.com/news/947993.asp?0na=x2309872-

President Bush spoke out in support of Secretary of State Colin Powell on Wednesday in the wake of a report that Powell would not serve in a possible second Bush term. But the president declined to answer when asked if he would ask Powell to stay on if he is re-elected, saying, “First things first.”

BUSH AND POWELL talked to reporters outside the Coffee Station restaurant in Crawford before ducking inside for lunch. Bush and Powell, as well as Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, had held talks Tuesday night and Wednesday morning at Bush’s ranch about top foreign policy priorities.

“The fact that he is here in Crawford, Texas, talking about issues of importance, should say loud and clear to the American people that he’s completely engaged and doing what he needs to do, and that is serve as a great secretary of state,” Bush said.

[yellowcanine]

1. Bush leaned on him and he said no

Sounds as if the shrubster leaned on Powell and Armitage but Powell is still saying no. Otherwise, you can be sure that Bush would trumpet the fact if Powell had agreed to stay on. Sinking Ship...rats leave.

[mainer]

2. Powell gazed at Bush like an adoring dog

I saw Bush and Powell on TV when Bush made that statement. First Powell said "I serve at the pleasure of the President" or something along that line. Then Bush launched into his "first things first" speech. And while Bush was talking, the camera showed Powell face-on, staring at Bush as though Bush was god. It was so funny my son and I burst out laughing. Powell looked like a Golden Retriever, gazing adoringly at its master -- honest! I hope you'll get a chance to see that news clip.