[ArneFufkin]

I know Bush is not that way, which is why I am befuddled as to the purpose of this announcement today. I admit I took a few phone calls during the event, but the reason I thought this thing had to be about Korea was because our momentum on Iraq was well underway given yesterday's revelations and the positive response across the political spectrum today. I'm thinking about perceptions of leadership ... and there will be many who will view this event as a vanity show of insecurity.

Everyone knows we're serious - everyone knows that Powell is on board with the President's assessment of our urgent national security priority. I agree with Goodman on his take here.

I am fully open, however, to being enlightened on what added value this event provided to the larger process. Powell's position in this campaign is important from a diplomatic and strategic position, and his efforts yesterday should have been given time to reach fruition and maximum influence.

[Wolverine]

Today, President Bush served final notice of 'intent' to follow through...

[Letitring]

State Department warning.Worst news yet, for Americans. New info about drones launched from ships being a credible threat. Saddam saying he will unleash chemical weapons on our troops/civilians. Just guessing here. (clearing throat)

[Miss Marple]

Value added:

1. Gives Tony Blair a bone with his base by saying we will welcome a second resolution.
2. With another reference to the Mirage plane in Iraq, it lets the French know they had better get on board, or we will be calling them on their help to Saddam.
3. The Security Council is put on notice that they have a short time frame to get on board. They arent going to be given months to debate.
4. Consolidates American opinion by getting the President's message on the news at prime time.
5. Gives Colin Powell some glory, which he deserves.
6. Nervous Iraqis might move stuff, which can be noted by our intelligence peope.

Now, are you satisfied?

[mombonn]

I know Bush is not that way, which is why I am befuddled as to the purpose of this announcement today.

He was resolute. I think the fact that so many did NOT take Powell as seriously as perhaps the President had anticipated caused him to speak up.

[Route66]

My take on this is that yesterday, Bush had Powell deliver the official last appeal to the UN to get onboard. Today he delivered his personal last appeal to the UN to get onboard. After all this, he cannnot be credibly accused of not being clear in his intentions nor of not giving adequate notice of what we are about to do. I think he did not set a deadline, because it would limit us and give Saddam an additional window of safety.

He also made it very clear today - another resolution is welcome, but will not alter the outcome of our decision one way or another. In other words - he's not waiting. The train is about to leave the station.