U.S. President George W. Bush on Wednesday nominated Robert Gates, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), to replace Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, a day after the Democratic Party appears to have gained control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in Tuesday s congressional elections. President Bush spoke to reporters at a morning briefing at the White House, describing the elections as obviously disappointing, and said he looks forward to Gates fresh perspective on the war in Iraq. I recognize that many Americans voted last night to register their displeasure with the lack of progress being made in Iraq, Bush said. Yet I also believe most Americans and leaders here in Washington from both political parties understand we cannot accept defeat. Gates is the president of Texas A&M University and a close friend of the Bush family who served in the CIA for more than a quarter century, under six presidents. The choice of Gates to replace Rumsfeld came as a surprise to many analysts. Bush said as recently as last week that Rumsfeld, who has served for six years often under intense criticism, would remain in his post until the end of the Bush presidency. At Wednesday s press conference, Bush evaded questions about his decision to replace Rumsfeld, but noted that Tuesday s electoral defeat played a large role. Secretary Rumsfeld and I agree that the timing is right for new leadership at the Pentagon, Bush said. The president noted that a change in military leadership does not imply a major shift in strategy in the war on terror. Addressing the television cameras, Bush warned the nation s enemies not to take heart at the changes brought by the country s democratic processes. To our enemies: do not be joyful. Do not confuse the workings of our democracies with a lack of will. Our nation is committed to bringing you to justice. Liberty and democracy are the source of America s strength, and liberty and democracy will lift up the hopes and desires of those you re trying to destroy, Bush said. To the people of Iraq: do not be fearful. As you take the difficult steps toward democracy and peace, America s going to stand with you. We know you want a better way of life, and now is the time to seize it.
