April 2006
The Generals' Revolt
"This too will pass."
—Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld,
in an interview with Rush Limbaugh, referring to calls for his resignation by six retired U.S. generals
In various interviews with news outlets, six retired U.S. generals call for Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld to resign. They accuse Rumsfeld of having created an "arrogant" atmosphere among the Pentagon's civilian leadership, of having an authoritarian style of leadership, and of having "micromanaged the generals who are leading our forces." White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan dismisses the growing dissatisfaction with Rumsfeld, telling reporters that "The president believes Secretary Rumsfeld is doing a very fine job during a challenging period." Rumsfeld continues serving in his role before stepping down on November 3, 2006 after the public's dissatisfaction with the handling of the war helps the Democrats regain control of Congress.