Account Office Negative on Surge; Others Uncautiously Optimistic

So is the "surge" working or not? The Government Accountability Office concludes that Bush's goals outlined in the surge strategy are unmet.

In a Washington Post article by Karen DeYoung, we read, "The report ... cited little improvement in the ability of the Iraqi security forces to act independently of the U.S. military, and noted that key legislation passed by the Iraqi parliament had not been implemented while other crucial laws had not been passed."

Not surprisingly, the rest of George Bush's crooked government had a totally different spin. Since they're constantly in CYA mode -- one thing they're actually good at -- there's a good reason for this, a fine excuse for that, and every reason to continue on the present path. "Staying the course" is making a comeback, which, we might assume, will eventually need another "surge" to get back whatever equilibrium is lost while staying said course!

To summarize everyone's objections to the GAO report, the Pentagon document blamed problems in Iraqi security on Iran and Syria's "negative role" in the area. The State, Treasury and Defense departments objected to its conclusions, with the State Department saying, "We do not require a new strategic document." The Pentagon said it "nonconcurs with the GAO recommendation" to update the strategy, believing that the "New Way Forward . . . remains valid." The Treasury Department disputed the GAO's assessment of the Iraqi government's expenditures.

Finally, Gus in the mailroom said, "Don't blame me. I only work here."