The Democratic party can restore it’s self respect by promising not to try to override the president’s veto or pass an alternative bill. Pelosi and Reid should remind the public and the press, the money Bush requested is within his grasp. He can take it, or take the blame.

Some politicians have the strength of their convictions, others have convictions until they taste strength. Democrats mention the Iraq war is lost, but don’t go on to prove it, then promise to let troops continue to die in vain. They pass a spending bill with withdrawal deadlines, but when Bush says he’ll veto, Dems assure [...]

Bush finally wants to put someone in charge of Iraq and Afghanistan. He’ll call him the “war czar.” So far everyone approached has refused ― it’s a hopeless assignment, and the title assures failure will be preceded by laughter. It’s encouraging to see the president consider intelligent candidates for a job.