Mike's Right

This is an interesting post on powerline about several raids conducted in Iraq by the Iraqi National Guard http://powerlineblog.com/archives/009096.php The Iraqi Security forces are slowly getting better. Remember the Fallujia Brigade, and massive reports of desertions by Iraqi forces? These forces are becoming a cohesive fighting force. They will help bring security to Iraq. The big test for how much things in Iraq have actually improved will be the elections that are supposed to be held later this month. I am not sure that Iraq is ready for elections, it would be amazing if they went as well as the Afghan election, with almost no violence. But that election went so well that it may set us up for unrealistic expectations with the elections in Iraq. It is important to note that in many third world countries where elections take place, these elections are often marked by violence, with various factions attacking polling places, literally stealing votes, and other tactics. I think that we may see similar problems with the election in Iraq. We shall see