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He'll step down after his recess appointment is through.
I think I speak for everyone when I say, "Awww, crap."
He'll be out within weeks, and Lord knows a Dem-controlled Senate will not give us anyone who will serve America's interests as aggressively.
Part of Bush's statement:
"It is with deep regret that I accept John Bolton's decision to end his service in the administration as permanent representative of the United States to the United Nations when his commission expires," Bush said in a statement released by the White House.
"I am deeply disappointed that a handful of United States Senators prevented Ambassador Bolton from receiving the up or down vote he deserved in the Senate," Bush added. "They chose to obstruct his confirmation, even though he enjoys majority support in the Senate, and even though their tactics will disrupt our diplomatic work at a sensitive and important time. This stubborn obstructionism ill serves our country, and discourages men and women of talent from serving their nation."
He's right. Bolton was a man of guts and talent, and he spoke up for America in one of the least receptive environments on earth. And, as testament to his skill, his efforts were not fruitless, despite the U.N. being equally unreceptive to common sense as it is to a robust defense of American interests:
"Ambassador Bolton led the successful negotiations that resulted in unanimous Security Council resolutions regarding North Korea's military and nuclear activities. He built consensus among our allies on the need for Iran to suspend the enrichment and reprocessing of uranium," Bush added. "His efforts to promote the cause of peace in Darfur resulted in a peacekeeping commitment by the United Nations. He made the case for United Nations reform because he cares about the institution, and wants it to become more credible and effective."
I wonder which squish will be acceptable to the Dem majority. I hear Lincoln Chafee's looking for a job. Ack.
Update: Jay Stephenson is rounding up reactions.
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