Depends on the Definition of Refutes

Headline: First lady refutes criticism of Bush White House

Lede: First Lady Laura Bush disagrees with critics who call the presidency of George W. Bush a failure.

Refute: To prove to be false or erroneous; overthrow by argument or proof: refute testimony.

Since it’s quite impossible to prove that Bush’s Presidency wasn’t a failure, I’m going to side with the anonymous AP reporter over the equally anonymous AP headline writer.

I do however enjoy it when the White House trots out Pickles as if she can speak with authority on anything.