How Will Good News in Iraq Affect Obama Vs. McCain?
The Republican has also criticized the fact that Obama has not made a trip to Iraq since 2006 and is certain to pressure the Democrat to make such a trip during the campaign season. Although, the recent successes in Iraq would seem to benefit McCain, the actual effect on the general election is difficult to predict, say campaign observers. And part of that is due to the unique nature of the Iraq conflict compared to previous wars, said Scott Sigmund Gartner, professor of political science at University of California at Davis. “It’s not clear what winning or losing is here,” he said. “In World War II, you’ve got Gen. Patton chewing up miles across Europe. The relationship between good news and the outcome you want is clear. Here the good news itself could be the outcome. “The McCain view is that the news is good, let’s keep going. It’s working. But you can also ask the question: Why do we need to be there if things are good? And that is Obama’s argument.” Gartner said the crucial factor