So we’re going to be told that the Bush war machine will “withdraw” the same 30,000 troops that went into Iraq as the surge’s main body, and this will somehow serve as a sign of progress. I am reminded of that old David Bromberg song “Sharon” when I imagine this afternoon’s speech. To be properly presented, somebody should come out to introduce him (Tony Snow in a surprise second swan song, maybe?) and say:

Folks, you know she walks, she talks,
She crawls on her belly like a reptile.
Same ole’ line except one part,
You don’t need no money, boy, you pay with your heart

I mean, really. Does Bush think he’s going to persuade the American public that a withdrawal of 30,000 soldiers, bringing the troop level down to the same number that had been there before the surge is somehow a sign that the surge was successful?
Forget the carnival barker; this is like Dr. Hook selling snake oil.