Iraq: New Criticisms of the Failed Policy in Iraq In an article in the WP, John McCain, Lindsey O. Graham, and Chuck Hagel have leveled strong criticisms of the deteriorating situation in Iraq.

McCain: "We made serious mistakes right after the initial successes by not having enough troops there on the ground, by allowing the looting, by not securing the borders. There was a number of things that we did. Most of it can be traced back to not having sufficient numbers of troops there."

Graham: "The administration has been stubborn about troops." "We do not need to paint a rosy scenario for the American people. We need to let the American people know this is just like World War II; we're in it for the duration."

Hagel: "The fact is, we're in trouble. We're in deep trouble in Iraq." "And I think we're going to have to look at some recalibration of policy."

A recalibration of leadership is needed as well.

John Kerry, speaking at New York University, offered a renewed criticism of Bush's failed leadership .

Kerry: The President has said that he “miscalculated” in Iraq and that it was a “catastrophic success.” In fact, the President has made a series of catastrophic decisions … from the beginning … in Iraq. At every fork in the road, he has taken the wrong turn and led us in the wrong direction.
full text of speech

  ¶ 2:20 PM