This is a dramatic shift, Anderson. This drumbeat has been now coming since last Friday as you just pointed out. And it's very clear that as elections approach in Iraq, Maliki is asserting a certain kind of nationalism there.
David Gergen
The Public Record
David Gergen was an American political commentator and advisor who served in the administrations of four U.S. presidents, providing insights and guidance on various political matters. Born on May 9, 1942, in Massachusetts, Gergen held significant roles in both Republican and Democratic administrations, showcasing his ability to navigate the political landscape across party lines. He was also a professor of public service at Harvard University, where he influenced a new generation of leaders. In addition to his academic work, Gergen was a senior political analyst for CNN, contributing to public discourse on current events until his passing on July 10, 2025.
I think he does and I think he may come back on this question of Barack Obama is not the right person to be negotiating the end of this war right now.
I think it has put him on the defensive, Anderson; but a couple of things. One is the head of the joint chiefs, Admiral Mullen has just said in the last 48 hours he thinks it's a mistake to set deadlines and hard deadlines.
It sounds more likely that he could be a secretary of state or secretary of defense, perhaps.
I don't think their lives have changed very much yet, Anderson. What we've seen in the past is that -- milestones and really big breakthroughs legislatively or in terms of rhetoric can change things over time.
No, because I don't think their lives have changed very much yet, Anderson.
But the election of an African-American president, whether it's Barack Obama or someone else, will, I am convinced, over time improve race relations.
But the election of an African-American, whether it's Barack Obama or someone else, will, I am convinced, over time improve race relations.
It's likely there -- if they've done this properly -- that he'll be greeted with considerable enthusiasm in some of the European capitals and you'll see big crowds in the streets.
I think it undercuts John McCain's argument about not sitting down with Iran, being very tough on them.





