[SJackson]

Why is the MSM and even the conservative press so ready to accept these premises for beginning an argument.

Because it's true, the media and the international community are watching to see if we hold the line against terror (other issues could be included), or retreat out of political expediency. This editorial seems to think he'll stand firm, but that's not universally accepted. Witness the emerging controversy over judicial appointments. The question is out there.

[River_Wrangler]

You missed the point of my post. I agree with you. I don't agree with the starting premise that Bush failed on disaster response, domestic agenda and the war on terror.