Yeah, on or before that date is where my money's placed. Here's the scenario I've been toying with: Bush formally tells Congress next week that we're starting a heavy bombing campaign, but that "significant" (i.e., non-Special Forces) ground troops will not be sent in until Congress gives authorization. That notification triggers the War Powers Act, giving Congress exactly 60 days to make up its mind. Since the election is just over 60 days from next week, Congress would be forced to give a clear "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" on Iraq before the election.
That's the closest thing to a plebiscite our political system allows, and would be a very savvy move on Bush's part. It makes Iraq a campaign issue, without opening Bush to charges of politicking while the troops are in harm's way. And we'll need at least a few weeks of preperatory bombing to pave the way for an invasion in any case, so this plan doesn't compromise any military objectives.
"Preparatory" is spelled with two As and one E, you nitwit.