Triumph: What, exactly, was he supposed to say? Maliki is PM of Iraq’s duly elected government. Saying things that will further weaken him becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy when it comes from the president of the United States.

Sorry, James, I guess it is too much to expect candor from the President. When he says such idiotic things that are in such obvious conflict with the facts on the ground, one can only come to one of two decisions: he's either clueless or lying.

I've always thought the "Bush is stupid" criticism was a bit simplistic. However, when you see the track record relating to his judgement on people's leadership and qualifications, it does raise questions.

This is the guy who wanted Bernie Kerick to run Homeland Security--the same Bernie Kerick who had bungled Iraqi's reconstruction of its police forces.

This is the guy who argued that Harriet Miers was the most qualified person to sit on the supreme court.

This is the guy who gave "Slam Dunk" Tenet and Paul Bremer Medals of Freedom.

This is the guy who thought that Michael Brown was doing a "heckuva job."

How are US citizens supposed to evaluate Bush on anything other than his statements and actions and policy results?

WASHINGTON | Congressional leaders displayed increased anxiousness with the Iraqi government on Sund...

Like the Bush Administration (and Steven Taylor) I don’t have much confidence in Maliki.

What are you talking about? Bush has been singing Maliki's praises for months. He's called him "courageous," "wise" and a "man of strong character." He has spoken highly of Maliki's leadership and plan for governance. Nearly every speech Bush gave during the campaign season he talked up Maliki's skills in governance.