Kerry collects signatures for Rumsfeld's resignation

"More than 275,000 supporters signed our petition," said Mary Beth Cahill in a statement. "Americans want accountability and responsibility at the highest levels of our government."

Calls have multiplied for Rumsfeld to resign after images of Iraqi prisoners being abused by US personnel at Abu Ghraib prison in Baghdad were made public, scandalizing opinion worldwide, especially among Arabs.

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US President George W. Bush, who has promised a "full accounting" over the scandal, defended Rumsfeld, saying he was doing a "superb job".

Kerry also has questioned Bush's right to lead in the wake of the scandal.