Bill Richardson, once the darling of the blogosphere, until he didn't perform as well in the debates as some expected or against three trial lawyers, has once again engaged us on the war in Iraq. Matt Stoller, Chris Bowers, and Christina Siun O'Connell all speak out in the latest Richardson ad, released just before tonight's New Hampshire debate:
I have read over and over in Kos how Richardson is pandering with his position on the war. Pandering to whom? His message has been consistent, unwavering, and as a result he is taking no end of grief from the other presidential candidates. They all say his plan is unworkable and unrealistic; opting instead for a phased withdrawal (a la Richard Nixon, 1972 - How did that work for us?).
Logistically, the troop movement out of Iraq would be quite simple; as it would be for the equipment. Redeploy all troops to a defensive position, begin diplomatic negotiations with surrounding countries to move equipment and troops out of Iraq. Negotiate with insurgent forces for a ceasefire to allow US troops and equipment to exit out of Iraq. Begin convoys with air and ground cover.
It's a simple, 6 to 8 month process at most; less if we decided to jettison some of the equipment. I am amazed that we can build up in 6 to 8 months, but for some reason, our government and our appeasing senators tell us the reverse can't happen. I don't buy it, and neither does Bill Richardson.