How will the terrorists view Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld’s resignation?

David Bowes, 61, Gray

“I think they’ll view it that their pressure on the President has worked and that the American people now feel that the President should change direction. I think that’s going to embolden them. They’ll escalate their attacks to bring about the withdrawal of troops, which I think will be very bad for Iraqis and America.”

Becky Alstrom, 57, Raymond

“I don’t know what they’re thinking. Their minds are not like ours. I can’t think the way they think. So I don’t know if it is going to make a difference with Rumsfeld leaving.”

Melissa Norton, 38, Limington

“I think they’ll think it’s a good thing – that this gives them a chance to attack us again.”

Adelaide Portash, 39 forever, Harrison

“I don’t think it’ll matter at all. It’s Bush who’s the key factor. We attacked a country that wasn’t involved in Sept. 11. So many have died, ours and theirs.”

Michael Busch, 41, Naples

“I think they’re probably a little on the happy side because everyone’s fighting saying we should pull out. I don’t think we should. We made a commitment. It looks like we’re going to be easy on them now. They’re going to be happy with that. That’s why they are rachetting everything up. They want to force the issue.”

Teona Beaulieu, 32, Windham

“I don’t know. I don’t even know if they know who Rumsfeld is. I don’t think they’re focusing on that one individual. They might not even know what position he holds in making decisions.”