Benchmarks

Res Ipsa Locquitur
--“the facts speak for themselves.”
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Senate byRichard G. Lugar of Indiana, the ranking Republican on the Foreign Relations Committee, delivered a fine and reasoned speech Monday night on the floor of the Senate. It offers an exceedingly clear argument for U.S. withdrawal from Iraqi hostilities. It should be read, and the WaPo reprinted a portion today in "Beyond Politics on Iraq."

How refreshing to know that even within the Republican party reside some clear thinkers.

It speaks for itself, and I offer the following two excerpts only as accompaniment to my cartoon choice:

"The possibility that the United States can set meaningful benchmarks that would provide an indication of impending success or failure is remote."

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"We have contemplated in great detail whether Iraqi success in achieving certain benchmarks should determine whether funding is approved or whether a withdrawal should commence. I would observe that none of this debate addresses our vital interests."

I submit that the only benchmarks this administration is concerned with meeting parallel those of the stalwart doggie at the park bench.

--Lisa