[sturm und drang]

I'll answer up as the presumed "Bush critic" who is giving Powell a "pass":

I always thought Powell to be much more moderate than Bush – someone who did what he could within the confines of his duties and responsibilities to force Bush to be more patient and diplomatic in the Middle East (particularly Iraq). The end result, of course, wasn't what he had hoped for, but I admire his tenacity in giving it his all to do what he thought right.

I still think Bush's decision to invade Iraq without awaiting UN approval is the underlying schism that ultimately forced Powell's resignation...