What happens if Rumsfeld is fired/resigns?

  • Context: News 
  • Thread starter Thread starter wasteofo2
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential implications of Donald Rumsfeld's resignation or firing as Secretary of Defense, particularly concerning the future of Paul Wolfowitz and the broader political ramifications within the U.S. government and military. Participants explore the dynamics of cabinet appointments, political pressures, and public perceptions related to the Iraq War.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants speculate whether Wolfowitz would automatically leave his position if Rumsfeld resigns or if it is merely likely.
  • Concerns are raised about the bureaucratic nature of Rumsfeld's leadership and his perceived failure to listen to military leaders.
  • There is discussion about the potential turmoil at the Pentagon following Rumsfeld's departure and the implications for U.S. credibility internationally.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the timing of any changes before the election, suggesting it would be seen as an admission of failure regarding the Iraq invasion.
  • Participants note the possibility of political maneuvering by Democrats to block nominations for a new Secretary of Defense, reflecting on the contentious political landscape.
  • There are differing views on the impact of foreign leaders' opinions on U.S. politics and how it might influence Bush's re-election campaign.
  • Some participants argue about the perceptions of Iraqi citizens regarding foreign influence and leadership, highlighting a divide in opinions on the effectiveness of U.S. actions in Iraq.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion features multiple competing views regarding the consequences of Rumsfeld's potential resignation, with no clear consensus on the implications for Wolfowitz or the political landscape. Participants express a range of opinions on the credibility of U.S. leadership and the reactions of both domestic and international actors.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various political dynamics, including the rules of succession for cabinet members and the potential impact of confirmation hearings, but these points remain speculative and are not resolved within the discussion.

  • #31
wasteofo2 said:
So, about my actual question:
Pelastration, you said Wolfowitz would become acting secretary, would Bush later appoint a new Secretary of Defense and Wolfowitz become deputy again, or would Wolfowitz become Secretary of Defense and a new deputy be chosen?

I realize it's unlikely that Bush will dump Rumsfeld, I'm just curious about the process that would happen if he did.

I suggest you take a look at: http://www.reagan.utexas.edu/resource/speeches/1985/51485b.htm

I don't know if it's still acurate. It starts with:

Executive Order 12514 -- Prescribing the Order of Succession of Officers To Act as Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Army, Secretary of the Navy, and Secretary of the Air Force

May 14, 1985
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, including section 3347 of title 5, United States Code, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Part I. Succession to the Position of Secretary of Defense.

In the event of the death, disability, or absence of the Secretary of Defense, the incumbents in the Department of Defense positions listed below shall succeed to the position of, and act as, Secretary of Defense in the order indicated:

1. Deputy Secretary of Defense.

2. Secretary of the Army.

3. Secretary of the Navy.

4. Secretary of the Air Force.

5. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.

6. Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
 
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