Sunday, August 31, 2008

Bush: “Let me just say from the outset that I don’t consider Bolton credible,”

"The Final Days", in the NYTimes, here, via Matt Yglesias.
Bush had brought Bolton into the top ranks of his administration, fought for Senate confirmation and, when lawmakers balked, defied critics to give the hawkish aide a recess appointment. “I spent political capital for him,” Bush said, and look what he got in return. The president went on to defend his North Korea decision, saying his “action for action” approach held out the most hope of getting rid of Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons...."
Of course Bush is right, Bolton isn’t a credible thinker on national security issues. But Bolton is also right — the inherent unworkability of the Bush doctrine has persuaded Bush to substantially abandon it in the waning days of his administration. But before Bush subscribed to the “Bush doctrine” it was John McCain’s doctrine, and he shows no sign of having left the true faith. (MY)

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