re: Is it just me, or does 24 lose everybody

In a weird way I think Palmer and Jack's friendship was the subtle driver behind the show. I remember thinking it was cool that a "nobody" like Jack became best pals with the President. The respect they gained for each other as they went through the seasons was key in my mind. I also agree that the new CTU agents are awful, almost to the point they are a parody of themselves.

Bring Michelle back somehow and let her run things.