Major General John Batiste (ret) appeared on the "TODAY Show," and talked to Katie Couric about the reasons he believes Donald Rumsfeld should be fir
April 13, 2006

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.

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