kipple

Tuesday, March 25, 2003

War Is Personal. The sudden loss of life, as seen in reminders direct from the battlefield, is not given nearly enough thought when we consider going to war. By Bob Herbert. [New York Times: Opinion]

I think the extraordinary televised coverage of the war with Iraq is a good thing. It looks less like a video game these days, and more like the real hell of combat. I don't see how any sane person could watch the astonishing bombardment of Baghdad, and follow the reports on the ground of one human tragedy after another, and remain cavalier about sending troops into harm's way.

6:59:15 PM

Budgetary Shock and Awe. The White House and Congress are about to march under the public's radar screen and lead the country into a decade of budgetary disaster. [New York Times: Opinion]

How an average $90,000 tax cut for each millionaire counts as sacrifice is only one of many unexplained mysteries as Republican leaders fiercely protect President Bush's second wave of tax cuts. The gallant troops in Iraq who are being invoked daily in speeches by members of Congress might be interested to know that the array of cuts includes an estimated $14 billion reduction in military veterans' programs.

6:56:13 PM

Ah, middle America:

U.S. EBay Seller Refuses Canucks. A Georgia computer vendor won't honor an online auction sale to a buyer from British Columbia, citing Canada's lack of support for the war in Iraq. Who knew buying a laser printer could be such a politically charged event? Charles Mandel reports from Vancouver. [Wired News]
6:53:35 PM

Lessons of the Past for Bush on Leading a Nation at War. The president needs to keep the country convinced of ultimate triumph if he hopes to have it marching in solid ranks behind him. By R. W. Apple Jr.. [New York Times: National]

The president, his advisers and his commanders have talked of disarming the Iraqi regime, rather than invading Iraq, which is what in fact has taken place. They talk of coalition forces, rather than American forces.

6:23:47 PM