Robert Gates - Defence secretary hearing
 

He sure sounds like one of the smartest of his breed.

arent they all?

Smart enough to be complicit in the Iran/Contra affair. So much so that Reagan couldn't get him confirmed as CIA Director... That didn't happen until Bush Sr. was in office.

Well, let's just hope he'll really do good on actual tests. :)

I'm not saying he's clean, I'm saying he's smart.

Rap Sheet

Robert Gates AKA Robert Michael Gates.
Age: 63
Military Experience: US Air Force
Recruited by the CIA: 1966

Implicated in Iran-Contra scandal and had full knowlege of the actions of Oliver North but elected to turn a blind eye, but lied and still claims he "knew nothing".

Advocated bombing Nicaragua.

Activities with the CIA remain mainly classified.

Funnelled billions of dollars in supplies and weapons to the mujahideen in their opposition to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

Assisted in arming Hussein?s dictatorship in Iraq.

Questionable activity in communications with Iranian govt and delay in releasing hostages to benefit the then US admin politically.

Trusted with the Bush family inner circle. Choice of George Bush to become the US intelligence czar in 2005 which he turned down. (Negroponte was appointed).

Tendencies: Paints a picture of scenarios with slants which have no foundation and according to the wishes of policy-makers. A known intelligence spinner who has spun more stories about the USSR, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia than he's ever had breakfasts. Runs on the Bush bandwagon "we are fighting terrorism worldwide" and in keeping with the wishes of policy-makers.

Overall: Respected to a degree and a generally cautious individual. Trustworthy and honest? Very questionable.



Is he smart Doc? :) Sure, he's another smartass.

I agree. He's one smart guy.