Condoleezza Rice has been appointed by President Bush as the new Secretary of State, succeeding Colin Powell, which marks a significant shift in the administration's national security team. The appointment has sparked debate about Rice's diplomatic capabilities, with concerns that her reputation may further alienate the international community following Powell's struggles. While some acknowledge her intelligence and close alignment with Bush's policies as potential advantages, others criticize her management skills and past handling of national security issues. The discussion also touches on the implications of her appointment for future political contests, particularly a potential matchup against Hillary Clinton in the 2008 presidential election. Additionally, there are rumors of other significant resignations within the cabinet, indicating a broader reshuffle as Bush prepares for his second term. The conversation reflects mixed feelings about Rice's qualifications and the overall direction of U.S. foreign policy under her leadership.