the post editorial is factualy correct that the dems current focus is on making public the details of how we got into the war. nor has the leadership stated what they hope to accomplish by this. but i think that the dems make a mistake if they don't speak plainly about how such investigations, while troops are in the field, will enhance tha country's security and international status.
the leadership should, and i think soon will, start making the argument that only when the lies before the war and the cover-up after are digested by the public can we react to the current situation properly.
and imho the proper reaction is not merely to demand bringing our armed forces out of iraq. its not in anyone's best interest to foment a civil war there and then say "oops" and wash our hands of it. powell's dictum remains; it is our karma to pay for starting this war, so we better get about the job.
when pearl harbor was bombed, americans were ready to do what needed to be done. i guarantee you that for most people, the realization of the truth about what bushco did to get us into this war rocks their world just as hard as pearl harbor. but as they see that the war is a national disgrace and a national security nightmare, they might not see that bringing the troops home "by christmas" in itself makes us any safer. but by dealing openly with the facts and, inevitably, removing those responsible, we will begin to show the strength, wisdom and moral courage that it will take to end the violence in iraq and leave its people better off than they are now.
in short, the investigations are inextricably bound up with any chance for turning things around in iraq and getting our troops out, and the sooner the leadership helps people make that vital connection the better off we'll be.