Be The Strategist

Just like WW II?

One (of many) major difference. A Democratic President won WW II in less time than the Republicans are bound to be in Iraq.

Ordinary Americans sacrificed everything they had during WWII, and were unified as a nation behind a clear, competent strategy for victory on two continents.

W: Ask not what you can do for your country.

We didn't invade any county during WW2.

We've already been in Iraq longer than we were in WW2.

Posted exactly one year ago today....

Iraq is not World War II: Bush's comparison is an affront to WWII veterans and shameless marketing for more war

Posted Thursday, September 01, 2005 by Mike Adams

This week, in the latest desperate move to shore up public support for the increasingly unpopular war on Iraq, President Bush attempted to frame the war as a modern version of World War II. He attempted to equate 9/11 with Pearl Harbor, and the Iraqi resistance fighters with Nazi soldiers.

For any who have even limited knowledge of U.S. history, this invocation of World War II is a gross distortion of historical fact as well as a disparaging of the honor of those courageous American soldiers who fought in the war. Personally, I am outraged to hear our President invoke such imagery in order to market his personal warmongering campaign to a gullible population. But let's forget about my own opinion for a moment and look at the historical record here.

First, let's consider the stark differences between World War II and Bush's war on Iraq.

In World War II, nation states (Germany and Japan) formally declared war on the United States
In Bush's war, there is no identifiable nation-state enemy
In 1941, to the great surprise of Roosevelt, Germany formally declared war on the United States in the days following the Pearl Harbor attack. With Japan's attack and Germany's declaration, we knew exactly who we were at war with. The enemy had a name, a nation and a geographic location.
But in Bush's war on Iraq, there is no such identifiable enemy. Clearly, we are not at war with the Iraqi people, as they are basically just milling around Iraq trying to survive. Clearly we're not at war with Saddam Hussein, as he has long since been captured. So who are we at war with? A "terrorist network?" Terrorist cells? There is no identifiable enemy here. That's why Bush had to declare war on a concept -- the "war on terror" -- rather than actually naming an enemy.

In World War II, the countries liberated by the U.S. (France in particular) welcomed U.S. soldiers
In Bush's war, the vast majority of Iraqis hate the Americans and want them to leave
The French gleefully welcomed U.S. troops during the fighting for French liberation beginning in the Summer of 1942. But Iraqi citizens flat-out want U.S. troops to leave. You can't liberate a country through an undesired occupation. Bush may call the Iraqi occupation a "freedom operation," but it's not freedom to the people who don't want you there in the first place. To them, it's just another military dictatorship. There is no such thing as freedom at gunpoint.

In World War II, when Hitler was defeated, the war was over
In Bush's war, even after Saddam Hussein's capture, the U.S. continues to occupy Iraq
If the war in Iraq was against Saddam Hussein, and if Hussein has long since been captured, then what are we still doing in Iraq? The answer, of course, is that we're installing a puppet government and calling it Democracy.

In World War II, Congress declared war
In Bush's war, no act of war has ever been declared by Congress
In his recent speech, Bush declared, "We are at war!" That's funny, I thought only Congress could declare war. Apparently, we are no longer a nation of law, we are a dictatorship where one man (sane or otherwise) can declare war, and our spineless members of Congress will go right along with it, even when such an act is blatantly illegal under U.S. law.

There's a reason this nation's laws say that only Congress can declare war: because our founding fathers knew that the decision to go to war should never be left to one man. It should be a consensus. With Iraq, there is no such consensus: only the military conquest of one man who abides by no law, domestic or international.

read way more...
http://www.counterthink.org/013116.html

To be at their level I would say "I know you are but what am I?!" (about National Socialist party or Communist part comparisons)

Could also go over their head & ask whether the comparison is to the Marxists or Maoists.

Could point out that the neocons come from the Trotskyite branch of Communists (ie. Condi Rice) but they definitely wouldn't get that.

Could pin them down about which battles in WW2 they find especially analogous to our present situation in Iraq but since they speak in generalities that wouldn't work either.

enemy (grunt) fight (grunt) terror (grunt) me big man

By the way, heard a radio piece about how there are actually more CHILD BRIDES in Bagdad since 2003 (when we entered & occupied). Seems there is such high unemployment that young girls are another mouth to feed plus another security concern - so marry them off. Then the divorce rate is high, initiated by the males, who under the law there get to keep any children usually. Then the divorced woman faces danger if she works (such as being a maid in someone else's home, since she is "soiled").

Is this the "progress" that liberals are failing to acknowledge in Iraq? Also read a piece the other day about how little we hear about education in Iraq. How 'bout all those schools and textbooks? If you lived there & had young children, would you feel safe sending them off to school?!

Pentagon: Cold-blooded carnage soaring in Iraq

Death squads and terrorists have ramped up attacks on civilians in Iraq, killing more than 1,600 people in cold-blooded "execution-style" slayings in July alone, a Pentagon report said today. The report concludes the "current violence is not a civil war."

http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/meast/09/01/iraq.main/index.html

(Didnt I just hear last week that the violence was decreasing?)

Don't let them set the terms of the debate.
Compare them (the current Republicans) to the Nixon administration (emphasis on crime).

Here, Alaska Republican legislators have their offices raided because of their illegal oil copmany ties.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1110AP_Alaska_Lawmakers_FBI_Raid.html

Re violence increasing in Iraq, Bush admits it is "terrible" there - but then emphasizes that it's all the more reason we must fight the "terrorists" "over there" "so we won't fight them here" - moronic since 9/11 and Iraq Oil War were/are separate & our efforts there increase rather than decrease terrorism - because of "blowback" effect.

Ask why we sell cluster bombs when it will take more than a decade to detonate those that Israel just depositied in civilian areas - made in USA.

Here is Bush's latest plan:

Bush Pushes Nuclear Weapons Development in US
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/090106J.shtml
In the face of increased Congressional opposition to US nuclear weapons development, the Bush administration appears to be making an end run around governmental checks and balances. The bizarrely named Divine Strake project is a
700-ton explosive experiment first scheduled to detonate at the Nevada Test Site in June of this year. Thanks to furious grass-roots opposition to the proposal, Divine Strake has been twice delayed, and is currently projecting a detonation date of no sooner than early 2007.

In what way is this useful against terrorists?
This isn't even useful against other nation states but politically and economically destabilizing, plus ecologically unsound.

The comparison to the Nazi's is false. The Nazi's stormed into peoples' homes and took them to camp where they were tortured and murdered. Sounds more like what we've done to the Arab world, not the Iraqis to us.

Second, the people who fought the Nazis were the resistance. They recognised evil policy and the demonic misdeeds of their leaders. Those in the resistance saved lives. We by our actions are the current day resisters. We are saving lives.

And then of course print up the list of the 14 facets of fascism and compare them to Bush and these Republicans. They exemplify the list exactly.

http://www.ericblumrich.com/14.html

Nicholas D Kristoff (Pulitzer Prise winner) says that they sat in Iraq watching made up stories about the war--saying that Fox News has done more damage to conservatives than liberals. (in essence)
An older link:

http://www.rawstory.com/news/2006/Times_We_failed_our_country_0704.html

As a strategy, I would ask VFW (WWII vets) members to sit for short (20 seconds) video clips explaining why they don't agree with the Iraqi war, and how it is different from WWII. These could be broadcast as short political commericials.

I would also ask the retired generals who have spoken out against Bush and Rumsfeld to go on a speaking tour explaining how this military action has absolutely nothing to do with the war on terror,and that America is less safe today.

I would have huge road signs recounting several of the 14 traits of fascism as listed on POAC site(see link).

When Congress reconvenes, I would introduce a measure honoring the soldiers who are fighting in Iraq while condemning Rumsfeld for his outrageous and divisive comments while also criticizing his inept management of the military action. I would also ask for his resignation.

I am not sure how to respond to the question if the strategy is unsuccessful as I don't know exactly how that could be measured. Yet, it there is a public backlash against these measures, maybe it would not be a bad idea to ask Joe Liebermann to make a couple of comments (just kidding).

http://www.oldamericancentury.org/14pts.htm

Just stop already with the DCP being "non partisan" already! Please, please, please point me to the number of pro-Republican articles you have written in, say, the last month. Since the answer is none, maybe you can point me to a pro-Republican sentence or two. The only thing remotely neutral on this site concerned the article from DiAnne concerning which senator put the hold on the porkbuster bill and now that KKK Byrd has admitted it was him, this has evaporated as an issue for you.

Ok, I just got another batch of emails from my dopey Bush loving in-laws, one entitled...

"What if Iraq Wins The War?", followed by pictures of American landmarks photoshopped to look like Baghdad.

Sent response... "Funny, I didnt know we were at war with Iraq?" Duh.

The second note was entitled "new stamp", and it goes on to list about 50 things starting each sentence with "Remember, MUSLIMS bombed blah blah blah...."

Please, one of you smart folk, send me something to blast back to them.

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 04:39 PM

Lets see, I posted that a republican blasted Dubya for his lying thru his teeth to America about the war.

That's one.

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 04:39 PM

I also have posted how republicans are wising up in droves that they've been had.

That's two.

Oh, and there are no better lyers or cheaters on the planet than republicans, they are friggin AWESOME at that.

That's three.

... and those record Republican deficits.

WOW.

Change the subject to their hypocrisy, lies & lack of loyalty

Friday, September 1, 2006

Oops -- McGavick by accident blasts ally

By NEIL MODIE
P-I REPORTER

U.S. Senate candidate Mike McGavick has embraced and defended Alaska's Sen. Ted Stevens, a benefactor of the Washingtonian's campaign and an antagonist of McGavick's opponent, Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell.

McGavick has also harshly criticized Stevens, a fellow Republican -- but without realizing until this week that it was Stevens he was criticizing.

After an anonymous senator recently slapped a parliamentary hold on legislation to open government contracting to public scrutiny, McGavick lambasted the maneuver on his campaign Web site April 24, calling it evidence of "more dysfunction in the Senate."

"This is a sad state of affairs when a senator (or senators) secretly prevent legislation to remove secrecy," McGavick wrote. "The American people have a right to know how their money is being spent. We need senators who are willing to hold their colleagues accountable for this sort of thing, regardless of party."

(read the rest at http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/283480_mcgavick01.html)

Point out the politician (Arkansas? Kentucky?) who said he wished Bush had come to raise money for his campaign - but "in the middle of the night"

Thinkprogress
Thank you - I am partisan going back 5 generations, not the site, but glad you think I can be fair.

I have mentioned before that Buchanan is against the war & that he has exposed the policies of neocons.

I have also quoted my Republican mother and uncle but they no do not support Bush.

An article in today's Wall Street Journal asserts that Republicans are losing their political advantage on issues of national security.

Based on poll data, Congressional race analyses, and a breakdown of recent speeches by prominent Republicans including President Bush, writer Jackie Calmes argues that the GOP monopoly on national security is in a palpable state of decline.

Among additional factors weakening the Republican platform this election year, Calmes writes, are unrest in Iraq, corruption, outlandish federal spending, and a growing distate for incumbents.

http://www.rawstory.com/news/2006/Wall_Street_Journal_GOP_losing_advantage_0901.html

That ain't partisan, them's the facts, Jackmuch.

ThinkProgress

Byrd dropped his "hold" after he reviewed the legislation. Byrd normally does not support bills he has not carefully examined & he always carries a copy of the Constitution in his pocket.

You can call him KKK Byrd if you want - I was once the Betty Crocker Homemaker. People change.

John Kerry will deliver a major address on national security and the war on terrorism on Saturday, September 9, 2006.
10:30 am Faneuil Hall Boston, Massachusetts

Hope mbk goes! Bloggers wishing to cover please contact his press agent.

By the way, Mexico has quite the Camp Democracy going on! Not seeing much press coverage, given the numbers. I would say that the situation is not even stable. Vincente Fox had to have thousands of police to even be able to give an address.

Thinkmuch,

It just looks like some comments are directed against Republicans because they are the ones in charge and are making all the wrong decisions.

Sometimes the truth hurts.

Yes, but again no one answers the question about which blog articles have been anything but anti-Republican and the basic dishonesty that goes on when you say this is a non-partisan site. You are partisan...be proud of it (or is it that nasty little 501(c)(3) problem you worry about).

Ross C. Anderson | Challenging the Culture of Obedience
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/090106L.shtml
"We are here to say, 'We will not stand for it any more. No more lies. No more pre-emptive, illegal war, based on false information. No more God-is-on-our-side religious nonsense to justify this immoral, illegal war. No more inhumanity.' Let's raise our voices," Salt Lake City mayor Ross C. "Rocky" Anderson proclaimed, "and demand, 'Give us the truth! Give us the truth! Give us the truth!'"

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 05:20 PM

I am not sure what articles pro-Republican I've posted if any. However, I have said it before and I'll say it again...I myself have voted Republican at least three times in my life. (I'm not an 80 year old either.)

I've been involved with some wonderful homeschooling families, and nobody can claim that the homeschooling movement is left-winged or progressive. I greatly admire these people as individuals.

I greatly admire how they took their anti-abortion stance to heart by actually inviting unweb mothers to live with them in the safety of their own home until they either chose to leave (even if the young girl and her baby stayed there with them for a while or until she chose to give it up for adoption.)

These same people who were considered Bush's and the Republican's base in 04 are shattered to see their religious beliefs used and abused by the Republicans.

They don't support the war.

They believe Bush has lied to them.

They're angry as heck about Katrina and about the gas prices.

They're angry about the loss of jobs.

They're angry about the torture too.

These are good Christian fundamentalist or Catholics who see what was done in 'their name' and against Jesus's wishes.

These are the same people who I would never have believed would ever support a democrat. Yet they do now.

That's why you see a lack of positive Republican articles here or anywhere in cyberspace. You can only lie so much before reality smacks you in the face.

People are tired of being slapped around.

ThinkMuch,

Here are some Republican related articles and sites. These are hardly anti Republican, but are strongly anti-Bush and the policies that his administration has forced upon us. If you think the current Republicans in power represent true Republicans, then you are hopelessly misinfomed. You are wrong when you suspect many who post here are rabidly anti-Republican. We are not, we are pro-America. Some here have voted for Democrats, some have voted green and some have voted for Republicans as well. Some have voted for more than one party in a single election, So party really doesn't matter when you get down to it. What really matters is America and the ideals for which it stands. Unfortunately some people seem to think that patriotism can only be displayed by allegience to a party.

Again, many of the articles that upset you are anti-Republican as you claim because the party in power is Republican. These problems have solutions that have been espoused mostly by Democrats. So what are we to do, ignore the problems and those who offer solutionns to them? Or do we expose those problems (and those culpable for them) and offer some redress? There is a simple but famous saying, "If the shoe fits, wear it."

Conservative Turns Against Bush
Prominent Republican Accuses President Of Betraying Reagan Legacy
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/02/22/earlyshow/leisure/books/main1337222.shtml

Military Leaders, Diplomats, Conservatives, Grass Roots Republicans,
Former Bush Supporters Rejecting George W. Bush
http://www.republicansforhumility.com/milrep.html

http://republicansagainstbush.info/

Thinkmuch,

I must admit, I am partisan.

I am partisan in my support for the people and ideals of this country.

Gosh, gues I'm partisan too, I fight back against things I don't agree with... and dangit, I too, have voted republican more than once in my life, because, gee, I can actually do the research and think through and issue and decide how I choose to be active in a DEMOCRACY.

Let Freedom Wring

It's official. If anyone had any doubt, the ruling in the Hastert, Bilbray case now means that the voter's wishes and the voting integrity means nothing.

http://www.crooksandliars.com/2006/09/01/democracy-denied-meet-the-new-boss/#more-9973

Pentagon Gives Gloomy Iraq Report

By ROBERT BURNS
The Associated Press
Friday, September 1, 2006; 4:13 PM

WASHINGTON -- Sectarian violence is spreading in Iraq and the security problems have become more complex than at any time since the U.S. invasion in 2003, a Pentagon report said Friday.

In a notably gloomy report to Congress, the Pentagon reported that illegal militias have become more entrenched, especially in Baghdad neighborhoods where they are seen as providers of both security and basic social services.

The report described a rising tide of sectarian violence, fed in part by interference from neighboring Iran and Syria and driven by a "vocal minority" of religious extremists who oppose the idea of a democratic Iraq.

Death squads targeting mainly Iraqi civilians are a growing problem, heightening the risk of civil war, the report said.

"Death squads and terrorists are locked in mutually reinforcing cycles of sectarian strife," the report said, adding that the Sunni-led insurgency "remains potent and viable" even as it is overshadowed by the sect-on-sect killing.

"Conditions that could lead to civil war exist in Iraq, specifically in and around Baghdad, and concern about civil war within the Iraqi civilian population has increased in recent months," the report said. It is the latest in a series of quarterly reports required by Congress to assess economic, political and security progress

more...
http://tinyurl.com/nmvhu

... and then from good ol' GOP.com...

Violence Declines In Baghdad As Iraqi Special-Ops Brigade Takes Control

http://www.gop.com/Blog/BlogPost.aspx?BlogPostID=2325

Excerpts: (FDR's Inaugural Address)

I am certain that my fellow Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our people impel. This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper.

So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.
(snip)
Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accomplished in part by direct recruiting by the Government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganize the use of our natural resources.
(snip)
The basic thought that guides these specific means of national recovery is not narrowly nationalistic. It is the insistence, as a first consideration, upon the interdependence of the various elements in all parts of the United States—a recognition of the old and permanently important manifestation of the American spirit of the pioneer. It is the way to recovery. It is the immediate way. It is the strongest assurance that the recovery will endure.

In the field of world policy I would dedicate this Nation to the policy of the good neighbor—the neighbor who resolutely respects himself and, because he does so, respects the rights of others—the neighbor who respects his obligations and respects the sanctity of his agreements in and with a world of neighbors.

With this pledge taken, I assume unhesitatingly the leadership of this great army of our people dedicated to a disciplined attack upon our common problems.
(snip)
We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of the national unity; with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values; with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stern performance of duty by old and young alike. We aim at the assurance of a rounded and permanent national life.

We do not distrust the future of essential democracy. The people of the United States have not failed. In their need they have registered a mandate that they want direct, vigorous action. They have asked for discipline and direction under leadership.

ThinkProgress

We are restricted in the amount of political lobbying we can do and cannot run political campaigns.

This is the law.

http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/article/0,,id=96099,00.html

There are churches who overstep.

BTW,

I was on topic upthread before the thread was hijacked by Thinkmuch's conerns about this site's non partisan credentials.

I would like to see the discussion return to the topic. Does anybody have any thoughts about my suggestions?

The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life.
(snip)
To those people in the huts and villages of half the globe struggling to break the bonds of mass misery, we pledge our best efforts to help them help themselves, for whatever period is required -- not because the Communists may be doing it, not because we seek their votes, but because it is right. If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.
(snip)
To that world assembly of sovereign states, the United Nations, our last best hope in an age where the instruments of war have far outpaced the instruments of peace, we renew our pledge of support -- to prevent it from becoming merely a forum for invective, to strengthen its shield of the new and the weak, and to enlarge the area in which its writ may run.
(snip)
Finally, to those nations who would make themselves our adversary, we offer not a pledge but a request: that both sides begin anew the quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all humanity in planned or accidental self-destruction.

But neither can two great and powerful groups of nations take comfort from our present course -- both sides overburdened by the cost of modern weapons, both rightly alarmed by the steady spread of the deadly atom, yet both racing to alter that uncertain balance of terror that stays the hand of mankind's final war.

So let us begin anew -- remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate.

Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.

Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms, and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations.

Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths, and encourage the arts and commerce.

Let both sides unite to heed, in all corners of the earth, the command of Isaiah -- to "undo the heavy burdens, and [to] let the oppressed go free."¹

And, if a beachhead of cooperation may push back the jungle of suspicion, let both sides join in creating a new endeavor -- not a new balance of power, but a new world of law -- where the strong are just, and the weak secure, and the peace preserved.

All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days; nor in the life of this Administration; nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin.

In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than mine, will rest the final success or failure of our course. Since this country was founded, each generation of Americans has been summoned to give testimony to its national loyalty. The graves of young Americans who answered the call to service surround the globe.

Can we forge against these enemies a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West, that can assure a more fruitful life for all mankind? Will you join in that historic effort?
(snip)
And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.

My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.

Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OnCall
The speeches by FDR and JFK are meant to bring us back to a baseline of what a good President can be, and what a compassionate & intelligent philosophy can be like.

In these speeches, both given at relatively dark times in history (since Nazism and Communism are being invoked by comparison by our current administration), we were not encouraged to give way to fear and hate, but to be strong and move ahead.

Gore and Kerry, for example, were and are two great leaders and unfortunately, have had to serve lesser roles (though important) than they would have in a transparent and fair government.

Posted by: not my president at September 1, 2006 08:40 PM

Agreed, those are important speeches. However, as relevant as those speeches are, I suspect that in today's environment, people are more influenced by others who have fought in WWII. Those veterans' commentaries about contemporary America will probably include reference to those ideals that are espoused in the speeches you posted. It is the human element that I believe would be most influential.

I also think that reminding people of what constitutes fascism will make them recognize that America - as we know it - is in greater danger from of those in power, and not necessarily "the terrorists" that our leaders want us to worry about.

Rumsfeld Defending Comments Made In Salt Lake City

WASHINGTON Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld reached out to Democrats late Friday, opening up the door for them to retract their stinging indictment of him as Pentagon chief.

In a letter to Congress's top Democrats, Rumsfeld said recent remarks he made during a speech in Salt Lake City were misrepresented by the media, including by The Associated Press. Rumsfeld said he was “concerned” by the reaction of Democrats, many of whom called for his resignation and said he was treading on dangerous territory.

“I know you agree that with America under attack and U.S. troops in the field, our national debate on this should be constructive,” Rumsfeld wrote Friday.

During his speech before thousands of veterans Tuesday, Rumsfeld said the world faces “a new type of fascism” and warned against repeating the pre-World War II mistake of appeasement. He alluded to critics of the Bush administration's war policies in terms associated with the failure to stop Nazism in the 1930s, “a time when a certain amount of cynicism and moral confusion set in among the Western democracies.”

Without explicitly citing Bush critics at home or abroad, he said “it is apparent that many have still not learned history's lessons.” Aides to Rumsfeld said later he was not accusing the administration's critics of trying to appease the terrorists but was cautioning against a repeat of errors made in earlier eras.

“Thought and careful preparation went into what I said,” Rumsfeld wrote in the letter. “It is absolutely essential for us to look at lessons of history in this critical moment in the war on terror. I was honored by the reception my statements received from our veterans.”

Democrats said Friday they stood by their remarks.

“We did read the speech and he makes comparisons to World War II” that are unjustified, said Brendan Daly, spokesman for House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi. “He needs to explain that. We stand behind what we said.”

Pelosi, D-Calif., had said: “If Mr. Rumsfeld is so concerned with comparisons to World War II, he should explain why our troops have now been fighting in Iraq longer than it took our forces to defeat the Nazis in Europe.”

“It's always been clear what Secretary Rumsfeld said,” said Rebecca Kirszner, a spokeswoman for Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada. “What's not clear is that he has a strategy in Iraq and to keep America safe. This letter doesn't change that.”

Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., also “stands by his earlier comments,” said spokeswoman Regan Lachapelle. “No one has misread history more than Secretary Rumsfeld, especially when it comes to Iraq.”

Senate Democrats were expected to meet Wednesday to discuss several issues, including whether they will try to force a vote of no confidence on Rumsfeld. Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., has vowed to push legislation next week calling for Rumsfeld to resign.

“Nothing can change the fact that Secretary Rumsfeld insulted the patriotism of the American people, and he needs to be held accountable for it,” Boxer said Friday.

http://www.rawstory.com/showoutarticle.php?src=http%3A%2F%2Fkutv.com%2Flocal%2Flocal_story_244192548.html

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 04:39 PM

When the GOP begins putting the best interests of the nation first, in contrast to their ideological obsessions and authoritarian religious impulses, then your comment will become relevant. It is impossible to be say anything positive about the GOP so long as the psychos and jihadists remain in control of the party.

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 04:39 PM

Not to belabor the point or hijack the thread topic, but I feel the need to chime in.

As our mission statement clearly says, our goal is to use "online communications to integrate, educate, and include the millions of people across America who are ready to work for a more democratic country."

As you read the comments on this blog, you will find many news posts/links regarding the issues facing our country today. And of course you will find many opinions on those issues.

Your complaint that this is very partisan and does not provide "pro-Republican articles" is similar to the argument that the media is not reporting any of the good things that are happening in Iraq. It's because there aren't many good things happening in Iraq just as there aren't many pro-Republican articles these days to post that aren't propaganda or talking points issued by the Republican party or their mouthpieces.

To achieve the mission we have set forth for ourselves here, we look to educate people on what a real democracy is supposed to be. With the current Republican Legislative & Executive Branches who have been in control of our "democracy" now for 6 years and an administration who continuously disregards the core definition of our democracy -- our Constitution -- many people have lost sight of what democracy really means.

That's why we're here. We all want a better country & world. We all are working hard to accomplish that, each in our own way. We all want the most qualified people in the very important jobs of looking out for the best interests of our country & world.

And so, it really isn't about being pro-Democratic, but about being pro-democratic -- a nuanced, but very significant & important difference.

And now, back to our regularly scheduled program.

I also think that reminding people of what constitutes fascism will make them recognize that America - as we know it - is in greater danger from of those in power, and not necessarily "the terrorists" that our leaders want us to worry about.

Posted by: oncall at September 1, 2006 08:57 PM

Excellent point. Anyone who has been paying attention and reads the 14 characteristics of facism can see where the problem lies.

http://oldamericancentury.org/14pts.htm

Posted by: madame defarge at September 1, 2006 09:32 PM

You know after reading Cyrano's and Madame's comments, it is clear that the strategy really is pretty simple. Speak to the simple ideals of democracy and the fact that those in power have lied their way into power. And that those lies are an attack on our country and its people. Pretty simple, huh?

Posted by: oncall at September 1, 2006 09:48 PM

I would add to that...

Define & implement solutions to fix the problems our country faces.

Posted by: madame defarge at September 1, 2006 09:57 PM

Yes, absolutely. One of the first solutions to the problem is changing the dynamics of power within our government. After that is accomplished, a fairer tax system, a health care system dedicated to providing health care for all citizens, resolving the disaster we created in Iraq, improving our education system, recognizing that faith based programs are a sham, and respecting the Kyoto treaty can be honestly and openly discussed. But first we have to get rid of the thugs in power.

This adminstration has ignored and simultaneously created so many different problems, it will take Herculean efforts to work through many of them. By discussing them, we will be making an important first step towards resolving them. Many of the issues that I mentioned above (and many more as well) are widely recognized as serious problems. Serious solutions have been proposed by the Democrats, but the Republicans have thwarted any Congressional effort to discuss those solutions. Interestingly, many of Senator Kerry's solutions and proposals are only now being recognized as serious and worthy alternatives to Bush's mistakes. Similarly Al Gore's reputation has rebounded with the release of his book and movie, An Inconvenient Truth. The mayor of Salt Lake City, Rocky Anderson has shown incredible courage by publically decrying what Bush has done to this country while the President was visiting his city. Americans are starting to resist what seemed like an unrelenting tidal wave against them.

OK, enough being serious. Since it's Friday night, check out Bill in Portland Maine's "Cheers & Jeers: Rum & Coke Friday"...

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2006/9/1/792/45063

Posted by: oncall at September 1, 2006 08:36 PM

My election link was one of the 14 points of Fascism.

Also, the so-called Iraq elections were later discovered to have major fraud as well. So if anything, it shows that a party who is willing to cheat at home is more than happy to continue the practice abroad.

The Grass Is Blue

I've had to think up a way to survive
Since you said its over
Told me good-bye
I just cant make it one day without you
Unless I pretend that the opposites true
Rivers flow backwards
Valleys are high
Mountains are level
Truth is a lie
Im perfectly fine
And I dont miss you
The sky is green
And the grass is blue

How much can a heart and a troubled mind take
Where is that fine line before it all breaks
Can one end their sorrow
Just cross over it
And into that realm of insanitive bliss

There's snow in the tropics
There's ice on the sun
It's hot in the arctic
And crying is fun
And I'm happy now
And I'm glad were through
And the sky is green
And the grass is blue

And the rivers flow backwards
And my tears are dry
Swans hate the water
And eagles cant fly
But I'm alright now
Now that I'm over you
And the sky is green
And the grass is blue
And I dont love you
And the grass is blue

(Or as Rachel Maddow described the Republican talking points... "The Opposite Game!")

Make copies of this pamphlet and put it up wherever you think would be best. Give it out to people. Help educate people to what is happening to our country.

http://www.oldamericancentury.org/smell_the_fascism2.pdf

Great comments! (checking in before bed)
Madame - you nailed it!

Ross Anderson's speech is on topic for this thread. He has, in one speech, said exactly what we've been saying for six years, on this blog and on other blogs. Here is an excerpt of part of what he said....

Ross C. Anderson | Challenging the Culture of Obedience
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/090106L.shtml
Excer[t"
We are patriots. We're deeply concerned. And we demand change, now. No more lies from Condoleezza Rice about whether she and President Bush were advised before 9/11 of the possibility of planes being flown into buildings by terrorists.

No more gross incompetence in the office of the Secretary of Defense.

No more torture of human beings.

No more disregard of the basic human rights enshrined in the Geneva Convention.

No more kidnapping of people and sending them off to secret prisons in nations where we can expect they will be tortured.

No more unconstitutional wiretapping of Americans.

No more proposed amendments to the United States Constitution that would, for the first time, limit fundamental rights and liberties for entire classes of people simply on the basis of sexual orientation.

No more federal land giveaways to developers.

No more increases in mercury emissions from old, dirty, dangerous coalburning power plants.

No more backroom deals that deprive protection for millions of acres of wild lands.

No more attacks on immigrants who work so hard to build better lives.

No more inaction by Congress on fixing our hypocritical and inconsistent immigration laws and policies.

No more reliance on fiction rather than the science of global warming.

No more manipulation of our media with false propaganda.

No more disastrous cuts in funding for those most in need.

No more federal cuts in community policing and local law enforcement grant programs for our cities.

No more inaction on stopping the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan.

No more of the Patriot Act.

No more killing.

No more pre-emptive wars.

No more contempt for our long-time allies around the world.

No more dependence on foreign oil.

No more failure to impose increased fuel efficiency standards for automobiles.

No more energy policies developed in secret meetings between Dick Cheney and his energy company cronies.

No more excuses for failing to aggressively cut global warming pollutant emissions.

No more tragically incompetent federal responses to natural disasters.

No more tax cuts for the wealthiest, while the middle class and those who are economically-disadvantaged continue to struggle more and more each year.

No more reckless spending and massive tax cuts, resulting in historic deficits and historic accumulated national debt.

No more purchasing of elections by the wealthiest corporations and individuals in the country.

No more phony, ineffective, inhumane so-called war on drugs. No more failure to pass an increase in the minimum wage.

No more silence by the American people.

This is a new day. We will not be silent. We will continue to raise our voices. We will bring others with us. We will grow and grow, regardless of political party-unified in our insistence upon the truth, upon peace-making, upon more humane treatment of our brothers and sisters around the world.

We will be ever cognizant of our moral responsibility to speak up in the face of wrongdoing, and to work as we can for a better, safer, more just community, nation, and world.

So we won't let down. We won't be quiet. We will continue to resist the lies, the deception, the outrages of the Bush Administration. We will insist that peace be pursued, and that, as a nation, we help those in need. We must break the cycle of hatred, of intolerance, of exploitation. We must pursue peace as vigorously as the Bush Administration has pursued war. It's up to all of us to do our part.

So if anything, it shows that a party who is willing to cheat at home is more than happy to continue the practice abroad.

Posted by: Suz at September 1, 2006 11:04 PM

And sadly, that is what they mean by "spreading democracy" and "defending freedom."

I'm sick of the Orwellian talk.

As I spend my next three days in Vancouver, I wanna see if I can get some Canadians' perspectives on our politics.

BTW, DiAnne - I spotted your house (and the rest of Seattle) on my way here!

Oh, and one more thing, now that I'm in Canada:

The US dollar has lost so much value that after commissions, I found that the Canadian dollar had more value. I had to pay $102.20 US to get $100.00 Canadian, at LAX.

DiAnne was right - I guess I'll have to carry a bucket and sing on the SkyTrain, otherwise I'll burn a big hole through my budget.

Posted by: Ally McLesbian in Vancouver Canada at September 2, 2006 05:52 AM

Ally,

I suppose as well that home prices have sky rocketed in Vancouver as well. Not good for my plans to protect my kids from the eventual draft.

Protest Keeps Fox From Giving State of the Union Speech

MEXICO CITY, Sept. 1 — Leftist lawmakers who have charged that fraud marred the presidential election in July staged a protest inside Congress that prevented President Vicente Fox from making his final state of the union speech to lawmakers on Friday, ending a tense day of political brinksmanship here.

Federal riot police officers and soldiers with water cannons had sealed off the Mexican Congress with miles of steel fence to protect Mr. Fox from thousands of leftist protesters camped out in the city’s center.

The president had vowed he would give his last state of the union message, despite threats from the leftist candidate, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and his followers to stop him.

SNIP

Still, lawmakers from Mr. López Obrador’s Democratic Revolution Party protested inside the Chamber of Deputies, taking over the podium just before President Fox was to speak at 7 p.m. Several waved Mexican flags and signs calling Mr. Fox “a traitor to democracy.” The president of the chamber, Deputy Jorge Zermiño, was forced to call a recess.

Mr. Fox arrived 15 minutes later. As he entered the chamber, wearing the traditional red, white and green presidential sash, leaders of his party said it would be impossible for him to speak. He dropped off his yearly report, turned on his heel and left.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/02/world/americas/02mexico.html?_r=1&th&emc=th&oref=slogin

Here is a strategy given to us by a Republican consultant. Let's take advantage of it:

To some of Mr. Bush’s allies, that is a mistake. “Look, the public understands the consequences of not winning,” said David Frum, a former speechwriter for Mr. Bush and now a conservative columnist who has argued for a major widening of the American military effort in Iraq.

“What they really want to hear is a plan, and a plan that addresses the new problem, the sectarian violence,” he said in an interview. “It doesn’t help to talk about the consequences of failure unless the public thinks some measure of success is possible.”

News Analysis
Bush’s Shift of Tone on Iraq: The Grim Cost of Losing

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/02/world/middleeast/02prexy.html?th&emc=th

Posted by: oncall at September 2, 2006 08:30 AM

Exactly. Talk about solutions.

And we have been doing that for quite awhile now. We just need to remind the media about that.

Evidence:

Murtha's plan in Nov., 2005:
To immediately redeploy U.S. troops consistent with the safety of U.S. forces.
To create a quick reaction force in the region.
To create an over- the- horizon presence of Marines.
To diplomatically pursue security and stability in Iraq
http://www.counterpunch.org/murtha11172005.html

In many of the "Out of Iraq" events that were held all around the country in January, 2006, military & political experts discussed solutions for getting the US out of Iraq & living up to our moral obligations to help fix a country we broke. Ellen of the Tenth about our "Out of Iraq" panel discussion: http://ellenofthetenth.blogspot.com/2006/01/dialogue-mark-kirk-wont-havethe.html

Lt. Gen. Robert Gard in November, 2005: "The United States should announce unequivocally that we have no intention of establishing permanent bases for a long-term military presence in Iraq. And we should continue to assist both rebuilding efforts in Iraq and efforts to spread democracy in the region."
http://www.wagingpeace.org/articles/2005/11/00_gard-johns_there-are-risks-if-the-us-withdraws.htm

Peter Galbraith's book "The End of Iraq" discusses offers a solution to divide the region in three separate Shi'ite, Sunni, & Kurdish areas.
Article from April, 2004 that became the basis for his book:'
http://www.thinkingpeace.com/pages/arts2/arts185.html
Review & opinion of his book: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2092-2271755,00.html

Many military experts (especially retired generals), diplomats, ambassadors, etc. have offered solutions for ending the war & sectarian violence. They've written letters to the president offering their opinions & advice, they've appeared on talk shows, they're doing all they can. The administration just doesn't seem to want to listen or heed the sage advice. Maybe it's the NIH (not invented here) problem.

I know there are other experts who have offered solutions, & I hope other bloggers will help identify them

And now, nine months later, the sectarian violence has worsened. I'm sure many of those who spoke out before are updating their solutions to reflect the worsening situation in Iraq (and the escalating situation with Iran).

The public, the media, & the administration just needs to listen.

“What they really want to hear is a plan, and a plan that addresses the new problem, the sectarian violence,”

Posted by: oncall at September 2, 2006 08:30 AM

Strategery: Point out to doinks like this REPEATEDLY that the myriad of destabilizing issues in the region, the breeding ground that BushCo says exists for terrorists in IRAQ, that these issues did NOT EXIST in Iraq before the ILLEGAL, protracted invasion. It's a breeding ground because WE ARE THERE... DAMM I'M TIRED OF THE STUPIDITY!

Point out that there is NO plan, there never has been. No matter how the corporate fascists in Casa Blanko try to "package" this product release, with fancy graphics and catchy slogans, it's a failure of collosal proportions... much like the alleged CEO who is trying to pitch it.

... and madame, this administration will never listen to anyone.

Hearings Impaired

... and madame, this administration will never listen to anyone.
Posted by: monkey at September 2, 2006 09:49 AM

Bingo!

That's the message we need to make sure the media & the public get.

Is this real?!

http://www.spikedhumor.com/articles/51259/Bush_Getting_Owned.html

Posted by: DiAnne at September 2, 2006 10:35 AM

Looks like it's real. But...Congress is still in recess, so when was this statement really made? (The video doesn't indicate that.)

Ally
You saw my house from the airplane!?!! Wow!

The cheapest thing with the Canadian dollar is to use plastic. You get the best exchange rate. Don't convert much cash. We also never reconvert it back. We save it for future trips.

Yes the dollar has dropped precipitously against the Euro and the loonie. & I just read an article which predicts housing meltdown which will affect the global economy, as 40 percent of our mortgages are foreign owned. Even many of our bridges & tollroads are on 99 year leases, as to Spain & Australia. If housing not only flattens (as is happening) but the bottom falls out of the market, it will trigger a recession, as it has every time this has happened. People with no-interest mortages, adjustable rate mortgages and 50 year mortgages will default and won't be the only ones.

Oncall
Don't rule out Canada for property. Friends from Florida just bought part of an island across from Vancouver Island (at the tip) and got a great deal. They will build their own house & start a business taking tourists out in boats as well as fixing boats. They already have been granted provisional citizenship. They didn't have much money or advanced education but they worked on this project ever since the election.

By the way - amazing what the common people of Mexico are doing. US will have alot of friction with Venezuela and Bolivia and probably soon Mexico, as people refuse extreme globalization and corporate control of their many resources. Then they will be "enemies." & in JFK's inaugural statement, he was talking about our friends throughout the hemisphere. Granted, we have always exploited those to the south and they have always been poorer, but it just keeps getting worse.

From Page 3 section of the Style section of today's The Globe and Mail, "Canada's National Newspaper":

Bush-bashing
Some things never go out of style: black, jeans, mocking the U.S. president. With political talk turning to the 2008 election, folks are trying to get in their best Dubya jokes while they still can...

Website is globeandmail.com, but I am typing from a hard copy delivered to my hotel room. The article refers the reader to simplyaudiobooks.ca, where the tagline "Don't Read Enough?" is right alongside a smirking W.

In any case, not seeing a W '04 oval for the next 3 days will be a relief for me.

Ally
Did you shop on Robson?

Isn't it wierd how Arnold is "going green" all of a sudden, and even supporting things he himself vetoed! Do you think he can really get back all those union people such as nurses after saying he wanted to kick their butts?!

Looks like the missile interceptor blocked the missile - even though Rumsfeld said this wasn't even a goal, which I thought was to save face in case they failed. Now N Korea is more pissed off than ever.

I see Chavez is meeting with Castro and has just toured the middle east, Fox couldn't give his SOTU address because he would have to face the opposition party. It's getting interesting!

Also saw that the Ohio voter registration restrictions were blocked. One small temporary step for humankind!

Pentagon report said Iraq is falling into sectarian violence. This is at least a prelude to civil war and has spread well outside Bagdad, to Basra in the south, Kirkuk in the north and points in between.

So one day later, what's up with this? (from Guardian)

"Our commanders and diplomats on the ground believe that Iraq has not descended into a civil war. They report that only a small number of Iraqis are engaged in sectarian violence, while the overwhelming majority want peace and a normal life in a unified country.'' W

In any case, not seeing a W '04 oval for the next 3 days will be a relief for me.
Posted by: Ally McLesbian in Vancouver Canada at September 2, 2006 11:01 AM

My edited version of your statement:

Not seeing W in the oval office will be a relief for me...

Take Off
BOB & DOUG MACKENZIE |

Coo coo coo coo coo....
Take off to the great white north
Take off
Its the beauty way to go
Take off to the great white north

Take off to the great white north
Take off
Its the beauty way to go
Take off to the great white north

DiAnne and oncall,

I also need to note that as I was going through Canadian immigration earlier this morning, the tone of the questions seemed to be that they REALLY wanted to make sure that I intended to go back to the US after my weekend, not squat down here illegally and duck US politics. They REALLY wanted to know what my plans were, how often I come to Vancouver, and where I was staying.

Granted, they were still very courteous about it, and they didn't push it too hard, but they really wanted to be sure that I was coming to have a good time and go back home, not to run away from American politics. The questions definitely were more detailed than the last time I was here (2003).

Ally
Did you shop on Robson?

Isn't it wierd how Arnold is "going green" all of a sudden, and even supporting things he himself vetoed! Do you think he can really get back all those union people such as nurses after saying he wanted to kick their butts?!

Posted by: DiAnne at September 2, 2006 11:07 AM

DiAnne,

Robson Street is part of my agenda today. I'm all dressed in my trademark black miniskirt suit, and will grab a bite to eat after this post.

The Governator will never have the support of California's labor unions again, for sure. Prop 75 (which sought to restrict unions' political power, but failed) PO'd them too much. However, he still has more name recognition than Democrat Phil Angelides - I hope this changes, fast. (And businesses are also very pro-Ahnuld.)

Not seeing W in the oval office will be a relief for me...

Posted by: madame defarge at September 2, 2006 11:12 AM

More specifically, the biggest relief would be ensuring that W is replaced by a progressive Democrat.

The worst nightmare would be having Sam Brownback or some other Neanderthal replace W.

So one day later, what's up with this? (from Guardian)

"Our commanders and diplomats on the ground believe that Iraq has not descended into a civil war. They report that only a small number of Iraqis are engaged in sectarian violence, while the overwhelming majority want peace and a normal life in a unified country.'' W

Posted by: DiAnne at September 2, 2006 11:11 AM

DiAnne,

Not only is he a liar, he is a bad liar.

Posted by: oncall at September 2, 2006 11:42 AM

I hear he's good at clearing brush but that's all he's good at.

US Official Warns on Poppy Crop
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1104AP_Afghan_Drugs.html " MISSION ACCOMPLISHED".......

92% of the world's supply & this year 30% more than the demand for the world's users

More good news in the war on drugs, thanks to Dubya.

Opium Harvest at Record Level in Afghanistan
By CARLOTTA GALL

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 2 — Afghanistan’s opium harvest this year has reached the highest levels ever recorded, showing an increase of almost 50 percent from last year, the head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Antonio Maria Costa, said Saturday in Kabul.

He described the figures as “alarming” and “very bad news” for the Afghan government and international donors who have poured millions of dollars into programs to reduce the poppy crop since 2001.

He said the increase in cultivation was fueled by the resurgence of Taliban rebels in the south, the country’s prime opium growing region. As the insurgents have stepped up their attacks, they have also encouraged and profited from the drug trade, promising protection to growers if they worked to expand their opium operations.

“This year’s harvest will be around 6,100 metric tons of opium — a staggering 92 percent of total world supply. It exceeds global consumption by 30 percent,” Mr. Costa said at a news briefing.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/03/world/asia/03afghan.html

Ellen of the Tenth has a good thread up RE: the recent Wall Street Journal article about how the Democrats are gaining ground on the issue of national security.

http://ellenofthetenth.blogspot.com/2006/09/common-sense-gaining-ground.html

Aside from the bumper heroin poppy crop, what did we accomplish?!

Bin Laden Manhunt Still Drawing a Blank
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/090206Z.shtml
The al-Qaida terror camps are gone from Afghanistan, but the enigma of Osama bin Laden still hangs over these lawless borderlands where tens of thousands of US and Pakistani troops have spent nearly five years searching for him. The last time authorities said they were close to getting him was in 2004, and in hindsight those statements seem more hope than fact.

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 05:20 PM

When we all go to bed at night on American Soil with our freedoms and lives in tact we are all one Party! The American Party, I do not believe in this administration, or this president but that does not mean that I am not open to some Republicans who would be doing the right thing sadly we have seen few of those lately but the Republican Party has a proud history of doing the right things for this country. This President and his Administration are NOT Republicans of old, they are super hyped up zealot party now, no respect for dissent, no respect for opinions and facts that counter what they want to see or what they think, they put Party before Country and guess what? When this happens we all lose no matter what party we come from.

An America United in Ideas and Principle is a wonderful and beautiful and strong country. America Divided By Party or politics or fear is a country on the edge and we can go either way. Right now we have been sliding back to the very things our founding fathers left all those years ago, the only thing that will stop the slide is voices yelling loud and clear that we are a brave nation and no longer will we let anyone make us affraid. That is how we beat Terrorists that is how we beat people who want us affraid so they can take our liberties. I would be up in arms against any party who ran this country using peoples fear as a weapon against someone with facts, Ideas or thoughts that counter their own, I dont care if that Administration was Democratic or Republican.

Oversight would have stopped a lot of this inner struggle America is having now, yet we have seen none can you be honest enough to tell us why?

I found another great local blog that is addressing national issues as well as those local to my district.

Deeply Blue, Ill, but not Sick! is the blog name & Dem Ranter is the author. Today's topic is "The Second Seven Day War"...

"I am so sick and tired of the current occupant of the White House going around the country telling the same lies over and over. I know this is part of the Republican/Rove election strategy and sadly it has worked very well in the past, but it still makes me sick. Bring back the good old days when Bush would take 6 week vacations and clear brush. Are we going to have to listen to six weeks of Bush giving the same speech on how his "war" in Iraq is somehow related to fighting terrorists? There is NO war in Iraq! The war was over in about seven days. That's about how long it took for our military to sweep through and take total control of the country. They fought and quickly defeated an enemy that was defending its territory. THAT'S what a war is and that's what our military (and all military) are trained to do. Our forces did a fantastic job and after that week of fighting, we should have started to bring them home and replace them with UN forces. Our military is not a police force, but that is exactly what they have been doing for the past three years as they have been picked off in small numbers (that add up to thousands) by murderous Iraqi thugs. If we had done the right thing and cooperated with the UN and sent in a multi-national force that was led by soldiers from Muslim countries, to act as a buffer among the Iraqi sects, thousands upon thousands of lives would have been saved. These troops really WOULD have been greeted as liberators. And the only cost would have been sharing of the reconstruction contracts with companies other than Halliburton, giving up control of the oil in Iraq, and admitting that maybe you made a few mistakes in your war "planning"...three things Bush and the neocons will never do. These failures are the main reasons, among many, that Bush will go down as the worst "president" in history. In two months we have the chance to vote out of office the enablers of this failed policy and start the process of doing what should have been done at the end of those seven days...start bringing our troops home and getting the UN and other countries involved. The return to sanity begins November 7."

Check him out at http://deeplyblue.blogspot.com/

Yes, but again no one answers the question about which blog articles have been anything but anti-Republican and the basic dishonesty that goes on when you say this is a non-partisan site. You are partisan...be proud of it (or is it that nasty little 501(c)(3) problem you worry about).

Posted by: thinkmuch63 at September 1, 2006 05:20 PM

==============================================

Thinkmuch --

It always amazes me when brilliant analysts such as yourself define non-partisan as the willingness to alternately and equally praise both parties...

Your complaint is that there are too many "anti-Republican" posts here. My response is this:

The posts here are neither pro-Republican or pro-Democrat. They are responses to ISSUES and the FACTUAL REALITY of how those issues are being addressed by the current leadership, which, as you may have gleaned is Republican.

It's not our job here to post daily butt-love to either party. Our job here is to push the ISSUES that face this country, and to urge the realistic assessment and response to those issues.

Non-partisan doesn't mean we take equal alternating turns asserting that each party is right. It means we are interested in facts, issues, and the answers to those issues.

The fact that the current leadership is tanking on all the major issues facing this country (so say roughly 60-70% of Americans these days) should give you some pause as to the effectiveness of this congress and administration. Instead, your major concern is that not enough adoration is being spilled on your political party.

Life's tough, thinker... there's a reason that a majority of Americans now trust Democrats to lead over Republicans. Even on the Terra issue. It's not because they've all become partisan Democrats. It's because this government has failed miserably, and only the most seriously blindly loyal partisan people can deny it.

The people who place their party over their country - always.

Like for instance people who, in the face of the governments failure in every major policy area, are really only concerned that nobody's saying nice stuff about their party.

It doesn't matter to you that these folks have screwed up Iraq to the point that success is virtually impossible. That doesn't bother you a bit.

Anti-Republican? Not so much. Anti-moron? Yup. Guilty.

Come back when you've got something to say about facts. In the meantime, I'll shed a tear for all the nasty things that have been said about the national embarrassment that is this administration.