Incredibly credulous comment of note:

As an ambassador, Mr. Negroponte has loyally reflected and protected the positions of whatever administration happened to be in power. As national intelligence director, he will have to hew to a more independent standard.

Why do you think he was picked?

Geez...

An Intelligence Director, Finally

John Negroponte, nominated yesterday by President Bush to be the first director of national intelligence, would bring many strong qualifications to the job: decades of diplomatic experience, a reputation for successful bureaucratic infighting and some relevant managerial experience. What he has not consistently demonstrated is the kind of bedrock commitment to democratic values, professional independence and frank relations with Congress that he will need to successfully do a job whose powers have already been dangerously diluted. We hope that after what seems likely to be a relatively smooth Senate confirmation process, Mr. Negroponte can put these doubts to rest.