Lawmakers, including Republican Senator John Warner, say they are eager to hear outside voices on Iraq and step up congressional oversight. Warner, a Bush loyalist and Senate Armed Services Committee chairman, on Tuesday called on the president to consult with Democrats as well as Republicans on Iraq. Warner also urged Gates not to try to sidestep Congress or hold back honest advice for the president.
"You simply have to be fearless" when it comes to this job, Warner told the defense secretary nominee.
As the Armed Services panel peppered Gates with questions, several House Republicans met Bush to discuss Iraq.
In a brief phone interview, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Duncan Hunter, a Republican, said the president "made it clear he intends to be successful in Iraq and he's not going to be in the business of effecting some scheduled withdrawal."
Bush lunched alone on Tuesday with Baker, who briefed him on the commission's conclusions.
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Gates says US not winning war
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