If it's not settled by '08, the 'Iraq question' could split the Democratic Party

Dallas Morning News | Carl P. Leubsdorf:

"The bottom line is that, unless the United States succeeds in Iraq by 2008, anti-war sentiment could dominate the Democratic primaries and create a split that would damage the party's chances."

Mr. Leubsdorf's analysis of the political calculus is excellent. Support the war in Iraq and run the risk of losing the Democratic primaries. Favor a pullout, giving the appearance of being soft on the war on terror, and risk losing the general election. In either case, appear to be indecisive or waffling and risk losing the respect of Republicans and Democrats alike. As much as Democrats may be relishing the political troubles the war in Iraq is causing President Bush, this war could end up hurting the Democrats even more.