the last line is the best: (IMO, of course)
"In the end, leadership means maintaining some principles that are non-negotiable – especially when it comes to the safety and security of America."
Good point. Bush's position is that he is enduring a lot of criticism, but what I heard of last night's speech sounded like it could have been spoken on September 12. He isn't shifting with political winds, ala the dems. He hasn't gotten bored and changed the subject, which is the surest way to get in a quagmire. He sees the overarching importance of these battles.
W is still a mediocre speaker, but I am more convinced than ever that he is a strong thinker.