You expect me to talk when all I could preserve is my own measly, worthless life? TOO BLOODY RIGHT, I'LL TALK! I'll talk, I'll talk.

Here's a wacky suggestion for Jeff Kosseff from the Oregonian- when your doing a story about what Oregon voters are telling them about Iraq as they tour the state on their August recess you just might want to actually go to some of these events rather than ask the politicians what they're hearing.

"Iraq is playing a prominent role in meetings that Oregon's representatives and senators have in Oregon during this month's congressional recess. Though recesses traditionally have been a time for members of Congress to connect with constituents on a wide variety of issues, this month's recess has a uniquely strong focus on the future of the Iraq war.

Next month, Gen. David Petraeus will deliver a report on progress in Iraq. Democrats and some Republicans say the report could create a turning point in congressional support of the war, possibly causing enough Republicans to break with the Bush administration to support a withdrawal of troops.

"This is one of the most crucial periods in this whole debate," said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.As he normally does during recesses, Wyden is holding three town hall meetings this week. But unlike his usual practice of addressing all current issues, Wyden is focusing the meetings on Iraq.

"It seemed very important to give Oregonians a chance to weigh in going into the debate," Wyden said. "I know a lot of folks want to talk about immigration and health care and the like, but this is going to be an opportunity to make sure Oregonians' voices are heard."

Sen. Gordon Smith said Iraq was among the top issues in his conversations with people at county fairs last week. "There's a heightened expectation," said Smith, who voted to authorize the war in 2002, but in December publicly criticized Bush's Iraq policy. Since then, Smith has advocated redeploying troops. "Wisely or not, General Petraeus and the president have created an expectation that there will be an evaluation and a way forward that shows us a way home sooner than later. "

There's a bit in there from Republican Greg Walden where he says voters wan't the troops home but want the exit strategy to be "done properly." Sure. That would be a damnsight better than how you and your President but those boys over there to begin with.