AP Interview: Gingrich Criticizes Bush, Open to Presidential Run

TBO.COM ^

[Sub-Driver]

AP Interview: Gingrich Criticizes Bush, Open to Presidential Run By Ron Fournier The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) - Newt Gingrich is taking steps toward a potential presidential bid in 2008 with a book criticizing President Bush's policies on Iraq and a tour of early campaign states.

The former House speaker who led Republicans to power a decade ago said he soon will visit Iowa and New Hampshire to promote his book, try to influence public policy and keep his political options alive.

"Anything seems possible," including a White House race, Gingrich told The Associated Press.

The quotable and controversial former Georgia congressman, who now runs a consulting firm in Washington, is promoting, "Winning the Future: A 21st Century Contract with America." He seemed to welcome the thought that a book tour will increase speculation about his political aspirations.

"It never hurts to maximize opportunities. That's the American tradition," Gingrich said. "If I can influence the reporters and political activists in Iowa and New Hampshire, they will influence the candidates."

Asked if he might be a candidate himself, Gingrich said. "For an Army brat from Pennsylvania who became the only Georgia Republican in the House and the first Republican Speaker of the House in 40 years, anything seems possible. I don't think it's very likely. On the other hand, if I have an impact on public policy and do it in a way that is exciting and positive, why wouldn't I want to do that?"

[The Wizard]

going after Bush will help nho Republican.....we want to elect someone who will continue GWB's work

[Reader of news]

Unfortunately, Jeb won't run. He would be a great candidate and president. If the main candidates in 2008 are Rudy, McCain and Frist, I will support Frist.

[Flux Capacitor]

----He also accused the administration of underestimating the effect of anti-U.S. propaganda from the Arab rule and lacking a strategy to deal with insurgents. "This lack of strategic planning led to the tragedy of the Abu Ghraib prison scandal," Gingrich wrote.----

----Despite his criticism of Bremer, Gingrich said the official should not be a scapegoat for Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Vice President Dick Cheney and Bush. "Whatever mistakes Bremer made were not corrected by his bosses, who were Rumsfeld, Powell, Cheney and the president," Gingrich said.----

???!!!

Who is this guy and what has he done with Newt Gingrich?!

-Dan

[hoosierham]

He's another FORMER cover boy of politics who misses the limelight,and is NOT going to be even an also-ran in the next primaries.

Newt, go on the lecture circuit, advise conservative groups in private meetings ,teach college course, and retire gracefully, but neither you nor I will be elected President.

[MeekOneGOP]

Unfortunately, Jeb won't run. He would be a great candidate and
president. If the main candidates in 2008 are Rudy, McCain and
Frist, I will support Frist.

Yep, Jeb has said he won't run. He probably won't. We'll see.

Yes to Frist in that list. The other two? If either of them are on the ticket
in 2008, I'd have to hold my nose. Surely we can come up with better
candidates than McCain the loose cannon and Rudy? Although I can't
think of any others right now.

Thanks.

[nonliberal]

(even though it was the fault of the MSM.)

Nope. Newt the Wonder Twerp sold out the Republicans to Clintler too many times and the GOP conservatives revolted.

[Reader of news]

I'm sure Jeb won't run in 2008. He has already said it. Anyway, he may in 2012 or 2016.

I would like Condi in 2008, but it doesn't look likely. However I do think she may be in the ticket as running-mate.

Frist/Condi 2008?

[nonliberal]

The more I am hearing about Sanford, the more I am liking him. If Tancredo doesn't run, I will probably support Sanford.

[JesseHousman]

Absolutely!

[nonliberal]

Reminds me of the SNL sketch: "The old Hillary was dykey and threatening"

[alloysteel]

The call for Newt to make a run for the Presidency is beginning to resonate.

At least in the mind of one person - Newt Gingrich.

But objectively, Newt has a greater chance of becoming President than Howard Brush Dean III ever had.

[JesseHousman]

Gingrich may be intelligent, but like a true, typical, lousy politician he pursues the wrong issue.

There are a multitude of issues and they all have to do with the deplorable condition of America today.

Filled with illegal, illiterate aliens from South of the border along with muslims strategically scattered across our nation we need a really strong hand to clean up this mess.

We also need someone to take a meat axe to that monster we've allowed to be created called big government. We are practically outvoted by these weasels.

Our leaders must sever diplomatic relations with Mexico, stop ALL immigration until we have our nation in order and halt all trade from South of the border.

[lewislynn]

Newt Gingrich running would be a good reason for a lot of people to elect Hillary Clinton President.

Is that what the Republican party wants?

[Grampa Dave]

Newt is starting to sound like McAinal.

Newt, a little advise for you, STFU and go play with yourself in some corner and leave our President alone.

[TommyDale]

Sorry, Newt. You have a snowball's chance in hell. You should support someone who has demonstrated better moral and ethical skills.

[Drango]

I love Newt! Love him, and when he comes to fund-raiser, he's why I go and contribute. That said, what is it about great, powerful people who can't seem to see what other see. His time for public leadership is over. He must lead in other ways now.

[rockrr]

"Why do people bother running that have no shot."

A year ago many would have said that was an accurate assessment of sKerry's chances....

[TexasCajun]

I want to see Dr. Rice on the 2008 ticket!

[PhiKapMom]

LOL!!! That made my morning!

[PhiKapMom]

I meant to reply to you yesterday -- I agree that Senator Allen will be our next President -- he has my total support!