Editorial on Rice

The Telegraph has up a worth-while piece on the moral authority that Rice brings to the State Department. Overall, I think it's a good piece although I can only hope that it's not too optimistic. One thing is for sure, it will certainly be good to have a State Department not in revolt against the rest of the administration. Powell, for as much respect as I used to have for him, has shown himself to lack the clarity necessary for the job. And in that, I completely agree with the author.

How, then, has America allowed itself to be seen as interested chiefly in oil? Partly, it must be said, because Miss Rice's predecessor, Colin Powell, only half-believed in what his President was doing. His own approach - and that of the State Department generally - was in fact rather European.

We can only hope that Rice's approach, and charm, can change minds.