[SJackson]

You can probably cite those contradictions more than most. As you probably know, one theory was that the Powell contradictions were a deliberate ploy by a unified executive branch. I would love to see evidence either way that would clarify what was going on in the case of those contradictions.

You'll never see the evidence either way. I reject that theory based on my view of GWB as a relatively straight shooter, and the well known pro Arab (Saudi) bias of the State Dept. They need jobs when they retire. On balance I think Powell did a decent job, particularly on Iraq, but he didn't address what I perceive as a major problem, restructuring State as a department fullly in accord with administration policies. Big job for Condi.

[FreeReign]

...one theory was that the Powell contradictions were a deliberate ploy by a unified executive branch.

I reject that theory based on my view of GWB as a relatively straight shooter,

The ploy from our executive branch was not directed at Israel. The contradictions were aimed at the Pali's, their terrorist supporters and the global U.N. types. Ya know, talk nice and then watch as Israel takes out the terrorist leaders one by one -- poof!

and the well known pro Arab (Saudi) bias of the State Dept.

Not sure if Fahd and Abdullah are State Department allies. I know the MSM cringes at the thought of those guys helping us with Iraq and Al Qaeda.

I guess they love it when Abdullah trashes Israel.

[dervish]

I agree with your take on GWB as a straight shooter.

On Iraq, I have read that Armitage orchestrated the policy on the post-bellum against what Defense planners wanted. And we know that there was poor planning there. My understanding was that Defense wanted to have an Iraqi government ready to go in as soon as battle was over. Instead Armitage put in the Coalition with its US face. That cost big.