The American Spectator

Politico has this report on Mitt Romney's Iraq's remarks, suggesting that Romney is using language less measured than previously. According to the report, Romney labels Iraq a "mess" -- just at the time President Bush is trying to convince Congress it is a little less of a "mess" than it used to be -- and focuses on a three step withdrawal process. (For some, conceding it's a "mess" may seem like refreshing candor and for others like giving ammunition to Congressional opponents.) On its face it sounds like what Senators Lugar and Warner have been saying --focus less on the "winning" part and more on the salvaging what we can part. On the other hand, Romney is quoted as saying he is opposed to a precipitous withdrawal. Based on this report it's not possible to discern whether Romney is deviating from the basic Republican position that the Surge has bought some time, the situation is not lost and facts on the ground should determine troop levels. All that said, I can't imagine John McCain, for example, speaking in this vein and I suspect we'll hear about it at the debate.