Cheney:"once I finish this tour as George Bush's Vice President...." [View All]

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/01/20060111-9.html

Interview of the Vice President by Sean Hannity
Via Telephone
The Sean Hannity Show

<snip>

Q Howard Dean said the idea that we're going to win this war is an idea that unfortunately is plain wrong. John Kerry said that there's no reason young American soldiers need to be going into the homes of Iraqis in the dead of night, terrorizing kids and children, women, and breaking the customs, et cetera. When you hear that, what is your reaction? And do you think it puts our troops in greater harm?

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Well, I think it's unfortunate. I take those comments as being offered primarily for political reasons. I don't think Howard Dean has ever given any thoughtful consideration to what's going on over there. He certainly hasn't indicated that by any of his public statements. And of course, John Kerry's views were aired pretty thoroughly during the last campaign.

The fact of the matter is that we have, in fact, come a very long way and made significant progress -- between Iraq and Afghanistan, having liberated 50 million people, gotten a good start to building democracies both places, and to having -- helping them build their own security forces. It's a remarkable achievement that's due primarily to the enormous capability and courage of the American military and the President's leadership. And I think history will judge it very favorably.

Q We're almost out of time. You had this incident with your health the other day. You want to comment on that? And have you totally ruled out a run for the presidency in '08?

THE VICE PRESIDENT: With respect to the health, it's fine. I have periodically -- obviously, something happens like that, it gets an awful lot of attention, usually a lot more attention than it deserves. But I'm feeling fine, back at work, and no lingering problems. And with respect to my intentions, once I finish this tour as George Bush's Vice President, I plan to hang it up, Sean. I've spent the better part of the last 40 years in public service, and I think that's probably about enough.