You might want to revise those figures, Jeff. http://www.gallup.com/poll/releases/pr030228.asp The new poll shows that 40% of Americans say they would favor invading Iraq only with U.N. approval of the new resolution....
You didn't tell the whole story. 40% say they would favor invading Iraq only with UN approval. Another 19% do not favor sending troops at all. Total = 59% Here is the graph from the page you linked... So, about 60 percent of Americans do not support war in Iraq if we go it without UN support. Just to quote from the article, "In general, the percentage of supporters has changed little over the last five months." Obviously, if we gain UN support, as I stated, I personally feel there would be overwhelming support for an Iraq invasion.
Thank God for our political system. We will invade Iraq, extinguish the immediate threat from Saddam, and free the Iraqis. If the mob doesn't like it, then they always have the next election to register their complaint.
Would they still be a "mob" if they supported war in Iraq or would they just be rational, sensible people with an intellegent, thoughtful opinion?
They are still the mob, right or wrong, because they don't possess all the information to make the best decision. The only alternative is to hold all security briefings in public.
I know, and you know, that the Iraq people will be far better off after this invasion is complete. They will get the chance to determine their future, and Saddam won't be killing and torturing them for dissent. Therefore, I am not sure what you mean with your above remark.
I just got back and it was really cool. Anyone that was there would know that it was NOT a big let's invade Iraq. It was simply a response to the anti-war folks. It was patriotic and nice. Sheila Jackson lee had the balls to go and show that, even though she disagrees with the Republicans on every issuie, she is a patriot. she got booed. I actually felt sorry for her. I am excited to see what kind of coverage it gets in the press and media. There had to be close to 10,000 people there. Bikers, rednecks, hippes, legless Vietnam vets, families, stoners, a good cross-section. FYI, there was a big group of people with a big ass sign saying "THERE ARE SOME DEMOCRATS THAT LOVE PRESIDENT BUSH AND SUPPORT OUR TROOPS" And they had God Bless America buttons with a donkey on them. I got one of them. All of the right wing nut jobs were giving the democrats mad love (self included). It was really a fun afternoon.
it's sarcasm. thus the rolleyes smiley. it will not be as easy as "We will invade Iraq, extinguish the immediate threat from Saddam, and free the Iraqis." it is just not that easy... what about repercussions? what about the possibility of more terrorist action against america? what about pissing off other muslim countries? nothing is ever as easy as it sounds. none of us can see the future.
From the Chronicle: Thousands cheer at rally downtown By ALLAN TURNER Cheering, chanting and waving flags, thousands jammed shoulder to shoulder into downtown Houston's Jones Plaza today to hear politicians, soldiers and entertainers praise God, America and President Bush's firm stand against Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. The ostensibly nonpartisan "Rally for America," sponsored by talk radio station KPRC, quickly turned into a spirited affirmation of Bush's policies. Speakers included House Majority Leader Rep. Tom DeLay, House Deputy Whip Kevin Brady and City Councilman Michael Berry. The only speaker who opposes military intervention in Iraq, Houston U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, was greeted with boos as she stepped onto the stage midway through the two-hour rally. She and her party later were led from the plaza under protective police guard. KPRC spokeswoman Melissa Brezner said 8,000 to 10,000 people attended the event. "This is not anti-war and it's not pro-war. It's not leaning either way," she said as the event began at noon.
The crowd was sassy but not aggressive. They failed to mention that she arrived with protective guard as well. Oh well. Like I said, brass set on that lady. I can't imagine wanting press that bad.