Yes, he should have. But he didn't, and his terrible lack of good judgement helped overturn Republican domination of both Houses in this election. Pres Bush's stubbornness is nothing short of self destructive. If the guy had just a little less pride, pride that is blinding his judgement, we would have laid waste to Iraq and pulled back into Kuwait with an enormous victory. Instead of getting caught up and killed in the Iraqi civil war, we should be safely watching it from Kuwait, while Iran watches it with terror running through their veins knowing they are next.
Tenacity can be a great asset, if you know how when to let go. Bush's stubbornness amounts to.......stupidity.
This long time Bush supporter from 1994 agrees with you and your analysis.