Does Carl still believe?

I'm tempted to post this without comment, but my highlighting skills are getting the best of me and I'm tempted to bold at least a few of my favorite highlights. Check out a letter to the editor in the February 20, 1998 Asheville Citizen-Times from then citizen and now congressional candidate Carl Mumpower.

In 1991, we attacked Iraq with a foundation of indisputable facts, overwhelming resources, world opinion, a coalition of allies and a clear agenda. Seven years later, we are about to go forth with a shaky foundation of maybes, limited resources, world resentment, no coalition and a hazy agenda. Few would argue that Saddam Hussain(sic) does not deserve consequence for his persistently self-serving agendas. No one has suffered more than his own people, and clearly this man has too long escaped justice. One could argue, however, as to whether this country should be the policeman. The confrontation with Iraq leaves us with two primary options. The first is to stumble forth with arrogance and sword in hand. We may temporarily humble Saddam, but the price in respect, credibility, and position with be great. A second option involves surprising everyone by putting the matter back in the hands of our detractors. Invite the United Nations or Arab coalition to give us guidance. Abide by those decisions and defuse the crisis. Yes, the need for war may return. This time however, the accountability will be on his neighbors and a world body, where it belongs. This time, as in 1991, we will step forth with the mantel of a brother protector vs. intimidating international bully.

Carl Mumpower,
Asheville

Half of what he said ten years ago actually makes sense today. Now, the real question is, did Carl really believe in his words, or was he whining about Clinton? Carl, care to apply your logic from ten years ago to today's Iraq?