R. Emmett Tyrrell has encouraging words for those who are concerned about the nomination of Robert Gates, whom Tyrrell has known for years:
Now in comes Bob Gates, and as is the custom in this town there is wild speculation. He is George Bush I’s guy. He is James Baker’s guy. He is the CIA’s guy. He is coming in from the presidency of Texas A & M to pull the plug on our involvement in Iraq. Actually, he is George Bush II’s appointee. And though I shall only mildly speculate, I suspect he will do as his boss tells him. That seems to mean he will apply a fresh set of eyes to Iraq. . . .
Anyone who thinks Mr. Gates lacks grit or an independent mind is mistaken. He was clear-headed on the Soviets and will be clear-headed on the Islamofascists.
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