We all know why [the generals] are so critical of the defense secretary. They're being defensive because they weren't able to implement his brilliant plan [on screen: Operation 'Greet Us As Liberators']. It was so simple: Go in with 100,000 troops, topple the regime, everybody loves us, and we leave by Easter 2003. These ex-military men have their right to their opinions, that's fine. They just shouldn't voice them during a war [on screen: 'Loose Lips Sink Approval Ratings']

If I'm doing a talk show or an interview, or pretty much anything where I can't control the context, I'm loath to do the character.

When the president decides something on Monday, he still believes it on Wednesday - no matter what happened Tuesday.

I'm not a fan of the facts. Facts change; my opinion never does.

I believe that the government that governs best is a government that governs least, and by these standards we have set up a fabulous government in Iraq.

There's an old saying about those who forget history. I don't remember it, but it's good.

Sir, pay no attention to the people who say the glass is half empty, because 32% means it's 2/3 empty. There's still some liquid in that glass is my point, but I wouldn't drink it. The last third is usually backwash. (Said to President Bush at the White House Correspondents Dinner)