Torri explains how the Stargate program has become much more public due to the international flavour of the Atlantis expedition (but doesn't satisfactorily explain why there aren't more New Zealander's ...).

Both she and the writers agree that Weir has been written into a corner, where she is constantly stoic and strong, and that while there must be a separation between the leader and the people, they would like to give her character a chance to lighten up on occasion -- for Weir to be authoritative while maintaining her humanity. Interestingly, Weir takes a much darker path in the second half of Season Two, which allows Torri the chance to play a much more layered and complex character, but she feels there also needs to be some sort of pay-off for the emotional journey.