OwlEye

Thus Ends the Debacle

Before continuing, I'd like to thank Norman Spector for the interesting discussion that we had following my last post. I have no idea how much free time editorialists have, but I enjoyed the exchange very much. While neither of us convinced the other (nor did I expect that to happen), I think I, at least, came away with a much better understanding of the motivations and reasoning behind those who oppose STV. And its important that the case against STV be made, and made well, as any change as fundamental as this deserves full, complete, and honest public debate, and thats something that I am sure Spector will be at the forefront of. As for me, I will be just as vocal on the other side, especially as the election in BC approaches.

On to my main subject, one of the most unsurprising, yet at the same time mystifying, reports that I've heard in a while. I'm talking about the admission by the Bush administration that no Weapons of Mass Destruction were found in Iraq. Duelfer is coming home, and he is "not going to fundamentally alter the findings of his earlier report." This is surprise, as we all knew that if the US had found even a smidgeon of the most basic chemical weapon ingredients, it would have been shouted loudly from the top of every rooftop in America (or at least the roof of the White House). But at the same time, it was quite evident that if nothing was found in the first year, it likely was not there. Iraq is a big place, but not that big. And if your pre-war intelligence tells you where it is, your task should be made at least slightly simpler.

What is most dissapointing, however, is the completely lack of coverage by the mainstream American media. It mystifies me that something so vital as the fundamental premise for a foreign war of choice should be neglected. After seeing the initial article in the Globe and Mail, I immediately checked CNNs website for the domestic reaction. But the story was not there. It took hours to show up, and now sits as the #2 "World News" story, just after Jakarta toughens aid restrictions, which, while admittedly an interesting and important story, probably should supercede misleading a nation to war. The report is not even one of the top 10 stories on the page. The report does not appear on the front page of MSNBC, and FOX News currently has it listed as its 7th story, which compared to the others, is respectable.

I can only hope that I am overreacting early and that the major news networks will pick up the report soon.

In good news, democrats might start to stand up to the President for misleading America and the world about his casus belli. Nancy Pelosi, the House Minority Leader, has demanded an explanation from the President about his use of false intelligence. Good work to Pelosi, and lets hope that other leading democrats are able to join the call. With enough pressure, it is possible that some questions might be answered.

Unlikely, but that is no reason not to try.

posted by MattyJ @ 11:00 PM