E. J. Dionne Jr-$87 Billion, Final Offer

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A56389-2003Oct20.html

$87 Billion, Final Offer
By E. J. Dionne Jr.

Tuesday, October 21, 2003; Page A25

When it comes to bringing peace and democracy to Iraq, President Bush is determined to do it his way -- and only his way. He doesn't much care what Congress or, God forbid, the Democrats think.

One of the most striking stories of the past week was Sen. Mary Landrieu's account of her meeting with Bush before Congress approved the $87 billion military and reconstruction package for Iraq.

"He said, 'I'm here to tell you this is what we have to do and this is how we have to do it,' " Landrieu quoted the president as saying. Landrieu, who was not contradicted by anyone else at the meeting, told the New York Times that when she raised a question, "He looked at me and said, 'It's not negotiable, and I don't want to debate it.' " The imperial presidency is back.

At every point in the Iraq debate, Bush has framed the choices in a way guaranteed to stir partisan division.

continued

...stated at least three times over the past three years by Herr AWOL.

what other branches of government?

somehow a "give in and bear it" kind of statement. "Oh well, everyone knows Bush is Imperial President, but why oh why doesn't he listen to people?" He doesn't listen to Congress because they've given him everything he's wanted so far. Until they stand up in force (like all the Dems voting NO! together) then he will continue.

I wish I hadn't read this. :grr:

Like Stevens remark: If you vote against it you vote against the troops. Several TV people have said the same thing. I always write them and tell them they are WRONG just like E J did in this article.

Don't know if it does any good, but it sure makes me feel better.