George Bush actually said...

"The timing is right for new leadership at the Pentagon."

"After a series of thoughtful conversations, Secretary Rumsfeld and I agreed that the timing is right for new leadership at the Pentagon."

"I'm going to make you this promise: My administration will work with Republicans and Democrats to fashion a new way forward that can succeed in Iraq."

"I believe that -- and, by the way, if I didn't think that, I wouldn't have our troops there. That's what you have got to know. We're going to succeed."