A most pervasive sense of satisfaction comes with the known results of the election so far. Knowing the hazards of participation in voting (and not just because it is raining), the Iraqis turned out at a level unknown in this country, to cast votes for what were essentially mystery candidates, in the face of great threat of bodily harm and in an atmosphere of forboding, triumphantly and with dignity. Sure, some people died because of some threats being carried out, but many more went even in the face of those threats.
They weren't mystery candidates at all. That was our MSM concoction. Iraqi radio stations have been talking about candidates and the election non stop. Ditto their TV stations.
Yuppers. This not only was a referendum on the Iraqi future, it also showed Al Queda, Zarqawi etc, the limits of terrorism. Compared to the turnout, the terrorism was like a flea bite on an elephant, virtually nonexistent.
All the killing they've done has only stiffened resistance to them and their butchering ways.