BREAKING: Robert Gates disappears from Armed Services Hearing--Arianna Huffington

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has disappeared from the Armed Services Committee hearing.

After mumbling that he "had too many classes" and therefore was not prepared to answer any questions, Gates disappeared altogether. Neither parties could establish contact with him. The committee will soon hear testimony from General George W. Casey.

When asked for comment, Committee Chairman Carl Levin (D-MI) said that "I'm glad McCain and I worked it out, and I'm glad we had a second witness prepared so that this session wasn't wasted.

At the same time, Gates's positions are probably similar to those of the president's, and we'll be consulting the president anyway, considering that he is giving us final approval."