The KSHB Chronicles
On 7 September 2008, I am to speak to KSHB TV in Kansas City about several issues.
They tell me that they want to know my energy policy, whether I believe in Global Warming, What can be done about Gasoline Prices, When I think American Troops should come home from Iraq, Where the Next Front should be in the War on Terror, Who is responsible for the mortgage crisis, and What I would do to increase jobs.
When Should Our Troops Come Home From Iraq?
We need to look at some history before answering this question.
Fact: We invaded Iraq because Saddam Hussien lied and convinced the world that he was the dangerous possessor of weapons of mass destruction. Being the kind of guy who was known to stuff people into wood chippers and gas babies, he managed to create what he wanted. He wanted the world terrified of him. He did not anticipate that the result would lead to the destruction of his armies and hanging at the end of a gibbet.
Fact. We crushed the Iraqi established state, and created a situation of social chaos.
Fact. We were not prepared to re-establish a democratic authority.
Fact. George Bush was right to say mission accomplished. From that point on, we have been flying by the seat of our pants.
Fact. Assigning Swat Team and Policing duties to our regular combat troops is putting them at risk because it is beyond their regular duties and training. They are doing a great job of learning on the fly, but it is an abuse of their purpose to use them in this way.
Fact. Our failure to have a plan created a chaotic mess for the average Iraqi on the street.
Fact. It is no surprise that our government is clueless as to how to manage Iraq. They are clueless as to how to manage the United States.
Fact. In all this chaos the Iraqi people have demonstrated a talent for blue finger democracy.
Fact. We believe in Democracy. The Iraqi’s believe in democracy.
Fact. Our military leaders have said that we will need to occupy Iraq for fifty years.
I suggest we submit the question to a vote by the Iraqi people. If they think we are a valuable contribution to their social stability. We stay. If they think they would be better served with us gone, we go, as quickly as possible. No political spin from their leaders. No political spin from our leaders. After all, it is their country, and it should be run on their say so.
