[PowderMonkey]

"I don't know why Gates decided to stay on with Obama in the first place."

"Potomac fever" takes everybody within two months of arrival. Lived it, worked it, and survived among its victims as a "Consiglieri." The first thing to go is the moral compass. The enormity of national influence wielded, even among low level apparatchiks is astounding, intoxicating, and highly addictive. Your perceived worth is measured by who you work for, who you know...how much "juice" you got behind you. Let's not even mention the perks, parties, women, and influence peddlers. Few can walk away from it. Most stay on, even into a retirement that can fetch a six figures income.

[prof.h.mandingo]

You bring up an excellent point. I think Gates is a self serving ass but power is addictive. It is not just the big things but the little things also. People holding the door open, best seats at restaurants etc. It all adds up.
Small story. My wife and I want to a conference in Nashville. Whole thing on expense account. We stayed at the best hotel, valet parking, fine rental etc. You very quickly get used to people sucking up to you and it is tough to not get used to it or start to really like the attention.
It is easy to criticize unless you have been there.

[whinecountry]

Thank you for your perspective. It explains a lot, and makes the rare standout such as Ted Cruz even more admirable, as he has vigorously resisted the DC status quo.