Major General John Batiste (ret) appeared on the "TODAY Show," and talked to Katie Couric about the reasons he believes Donald Rumsfeld should be fired.
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(Raw Story has the full transcript and also transcripts of his other appearances.)
COURIC: So why go public with your criticism now?
GEN. BATISTE: Katie, this is something that's been building in me for the last five years. And as you said, I retired on the first of November and transitioned into civilian; thought a lot about it, and I feel strongly. I have nothing to gain in doing this. There is no political agenda at all. For 31 years I was a loyal subordinate and did not tolerate dissension in the ranks. My sole motivation, pure and simple, are the servicemen and women and their incredible families.
COURIC: Do you find it just coincidental that they're echoing your sentiments?
GEN. BATISTE: I think it is absolutely coincidental. It's happening for a reason. It's happening on the throes of the "Cobra 2" book publication. I think there's a lot of people now starting to ask questions, and I think that's healthy in a democracy.
