Just one day after the midterm elections, in which many Americans cast their votes in part against the Administration's policy and slow progress in Iraq, President Bush announced the resignation of Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld.

The President, while applauding Rumsfeld's service and dedication during "challenging times," conceded that both he and the Secretary agreed that "Iraq is not working well enough and fast enough."  

President Bush announced former CIA Director Robert M. Gates as his nominee to replace Rumsfeld, stating that Mr. Gates "will provide the department with a fresh perspective and new ideas on how America can achieve our goals in Iraq."

So who is Robert Gates?

Dr. Gates (63) is currently President of Texas A&M University, a position he has held since 2002.  Prior to serving as President of the University, Gates headed the George H.W. Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M from 1999 to 2001.

Dr. Gates is the only career officer in the Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) history to rise from entry-level employee to Director, a post he held from 1991 to 1993.  He joined the Central Intelligence Agency in 1966 and spent nearly 27 years as an intelligence professional, serving six presidents.  Dr. Gates spent nearly nine years on the National Security Council in The White House, serving four presidents of both political parties, and was Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Adviser from 1989 to 1991 for President George H.W. Bush.

Dr. Gates has been awarded the National Security Medal, the Presidential Citizens Medal, has twice received the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal and has three times received CIA's highest award, the Distinguished Intelligence Medal.

Dr. Gates currently serves on the Baker-Hamilton commission, a special review panel on Iraq headed by Former Secretary of State James A. Baker III and former Congressman Lee Hamilton, which is expected to soon release its highly anticipated recommendations for revamping the current policy in Iraq.

Dr. Gates, a native of Kansas, received his bachelor's degree from the College of William and Mary, his master's degree in history from Indiana University and his doctorate in Russian and Soviet history from Georgetown University.

Gates must now be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.