Getting Serious In Iraq

Atrios points out how members of the media are starting to whisper that Kerry wants to bring the troops home as soon as possible. Now this is obviously not true, but Kerry desperately needs to discern his war plan from that of President Dink Lips. One of the biggest problems he's had is not having a clear and differing strategy on Iraq than that of Bush.

I think the best way to do this is to actively call for increased troop levels, whether he can internationalize the force or not. Bush can't call for a dramatic increase in troops because it will be an admission that the war plan was flawed, and we know how willing to admit mistakes this bunch is. Kerry on the other hand has nothing to lose, and by doing so he can show that he is more serious about succeeding in Iraq, and also appear to be cleaning up Bush & Co's mess.

This new message would be in stark contrast to Bush's, who insists troop levels are fine and that Iraqi forces will soon be able to take over. Give a concrete number; 250,000, 300,000, whatever. Insist on winning. Anything to present a more serious and contrasting message.