I still support this President...

[kentuck]

And I am sure there is a lot we don't know about how we got into this mess.

But I tend to think it is related to the so-called "rebels" that we have been supporting for the last year or so? It has created instability in Syria and inflamed the civil war in that country, in my opinion. There are some serious battles going on there.

With the help of Saudi Arabia, our intelligence agencies - mainly the CIA - have been funneling weapons and money to the "rebels". President Obama has made the mistake of several Presidents before him - giving credibility to our intelligence agencies. Now we are stuck in a hornets nest and it doesn't look like there is any way to escape?

But there comes a time to face reality and facts. How many people were actually killed by poison gas? Where did Kerry get his numbers? From the "rebels"? One thing is for certain, this is no time to rush to war.

In my opinion, the President should cut his losses. If he cannot get international support in the UN, and it is highly unlikely, and if the vote fails in the Congress, he should follow the vote of the Congress. He should not pursue it on his own.

Anyway, the threat of an attack has been just as effective, or moreso, than a real attack with cruise missiles. Assad knows he is playing with fire. The world is aware. It would be very unwise to let it happen again.

The President, in my opinion, should make a statement to the nation before Congress votes on the issue. He should declare that he will follow the advise and consent of the Congress and will not attack Syria at this time if Congress does not give its consent.

In the long run, I do not see a lot of political damage to the President because most Americans are against bombing Syria anyway. Just mark it down as a lesson learned. But it is important that he talk to the American people before Congress takes its vote.

[wandy]

1. Hard time for progressivs.......

One of our weakness is that we don't always agree. We don't march in lockstep.
republicans use this all the time.

One of our greatest strengths is that we don't always agree. We will find the path even if we get a bit bruised up along the way.

I very much agree with you and the sooner this is regaled to the "lessons learned" bucket the better.

[kentuck]

2. Sometimes the truth hurts..

It is much easier to operate under illusions and partisanship.

[felix_numinous]

3. K&R!

Hoping cool heads prevail.

[rhett o rick]

4. If I was in Congress I wouldnt want to vote with out the President's assurance that it would

be meaningful.