I think that the troop increase is a great idea- it sends a message that the American will is not broken, despite the demoncrats getting elected. It will escalate some violence but it should hopefully inspire the Iraqis to arms!
I am also impressed with General Patraeus and the strategy that is unfolding under the President's Iraq plan. To those who did not support going to war in Iraq, i.e. those who did not understand the threat posed by Saddam Hussein, they should realize that this is water under the bridge. We are in it, and we have to win it. America cannot afford to lose Iraq, period. Anyone who does not support victory is not on their country's side.