THE SHINSEKI EFFECT

Why didn't any of our generals speak out against the Iraq Fiasco? Perhaps because the only man who told his frank opinion of the number of troops required was canned. (Via Crooks & Liars)

SCHIEFFER: Senator, we don’t want generals making policy. That’s for the civilian leadership. But should they resign? Should they be willing to speak out when they don’t agree with the policies? What should they do?

Sen. McCAIN: At the confirmation hearing of all senior–of these senior officers, the questions asked at the Armed Services Committee, `Will you give this committee your honest and candid opinion if there–and personal opinion if directly asked?’ They always say yes, they will. That’s number one. Number two is, if you think the country is going in the wrong direction, and it’s going to cause the needless loss of American–young Americans’ lives, then of course you should stand up and you should leave your position.
And I know that’s a very tough decision for people to make. But first of all, I would start by giving my candid and honest and personal opinion when asked by Congress because–during their confirmation hearings, which means they are appointed to the rank that they are nominated for, then they should give that opinion at that time. Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen very often.

SCHIEFFER: Right.

Sen. McCAIN: And one of the reasons, in all due respect, my friend, is because General Shinseki gave his opinion and got fired.