Feingold Steps Up On Iraq, Demands Exit Strategy

Finally, one of the top 2008 Democratic presidential contenders has the guts to take a major stand on the Iraq War. According to the Associated Press, Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI) is announcing his support for the United States to set a firm timetable for withdrawal of American troops from Iraq. Though that is a position that polls show a majority of Americans support, high profile Democrats have been unwilling to come out and make that stand. In fact, just a few weeks ago, the Democratic campaign committee in Washington is actually trying to pretend the Iraq War doesn't exist.

Feingold is the highest profile Democrat to join a group of courageous (though largely ignored) Democrats in Congress who are demanding that Americans' concern about Iraq are heard and acted upon by our government.

To be sure, Republicans will claim that any timetable would be helping the terrorists - an entirely dishonest and shortsighted argument that the media continues to buy. Why is it dishonest? Because it doesn't take into account the other side of a timetable: pressure on the Iraqi government to get its act together. A timetable for withdrawal would create a much-needed sense of urgency and a big incentive for the Iraqis to step up their security efforts. If they know American troops aren't going to be there forever to stabalize the country, they will know they have to dramatically improve their own operations, which ultimately is the goal anyway.

Democrats would be wise to follow Feingold's lead, instead of either parroting right-wing lies themselves like Sen. Evan Bayh (D), or cowering in a corner on Iraq because they believe any support for withdrawal will mean they will look weak on national security. That just isn't the case. Polls show Americans believe the Iraq War has made this country less safe. That means trying to end the war and get out of the situation as Feingold is calling for is a credible pro-national security position in the eyes of the public.

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