Lonesome George - No Plan, No Friends

Even the military is increasingly down on the 'Decider'-in-chief. A Military.com poll reveals that the Troops are losing faith in Bush as they realize that the invasion of Iraq was based on lies and that the occupation has been botched by civilian leaders (meaning Bush and his neo-con buddies).

Poll of military finds dimmer view of Iraq war

By Robert Hodierne
Military Times

WASHINGTON — The U.S. military, once a staunch supporter of President Bush and the Iraq war, has grown increasingly pessimistic about chances for victory, a new poll says.

For the first time, more troops disapprove of the president's handling of the war than approve of it, according to the 2006 Military Times Poll.

When the military was feeling most optimistic about the war — in 2004 — 83 percent of poll respondents said success in Iraq was likely. This year, that number is down to 50 percent.

Only 35 percent of military members polled this year said they approve of the way Bush is handling the war, and 42 percent said they disapprove. ...

... Whatever war plan Bush announces next month, its ultimate goal likely will be to replace U.S. troops with Iraqis. The military is not optimistic that will happen soon. ...

... Almost half of those responding think the United States needs more troops in Iraq. A surprising 13 percent said the United States should have no troops there.

As for Afghanistan force levels, 39 percent think more U.S. troops are needed there. But while they want more troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, nearly three-quarters of respondents think the military is stretched too thin to be effective. ... (full article)