Update [2006-11-9 12:27:41 by guyermo]:
Now updated with linkage!
The
Minneapolis Star Tribune today has an
editorial that eviscerates President Bush's statements in his press conference yesterday. Any emphasis is original to the story.
In his Wednesday press conference, Bush showed that he understands his Iraq policy is a problem, but he showed no appreciation for why that is so. The president was tightly wound, testy and grudging in his discussion of the war and the part it played in his party's "thumpin' " at the polls Tuesday.
more below
The first sentence in these quotes are points made in his press conference. After that is when the Editor tears him to shreds.
* Rumsfeld has done a "superb" job as defense secretary. That's a Texas-sized fantasy. Rumsfeld has botched Iraq from day one. Even Republicans recognize that he's been one of the worst defense secretaries in history.
Gee, Editors, tell us how you really feel.
* Iraq is not caught up in a civil war. That's Texas-sized denial. If it's not a civil war, it's a very good imitation of one, and the Shiite and Sunni factions do not appear interested in imitating anyone.
I think what Bush needs is for one side to wear blue, the other grey and whistling dixie. THEN maybe he'll get it.
*The United States must win "this aspect of the war on terror" in Iraq. But the Iraq conflict only impedes the actual war on terror by distracting the United States and breeding many more terrorists than American troops can kill, and getting Americans killed in the process.
Finally! An editor who gets it!
There are other quotes like these in the editorial. I only shared my favorites. If you like the fact that there is a genuinely progressive (mostly) editorial board in this country, send the ombudsman some love!