Over there

This powerful commentary by Keith Olbermann helps to frame the issue. I'm sure you've already heard the news about a projected troop withdrawal from Iraq:

American media reports say Gen Petraeus has indicated a willingness to consider pulling out one brigade of between 3,500 and 4,500 US troops from Iraq early next year, with more in following months based on conditions on the ground.

In February, Mr Bush ordered an extra 30,000 troops to Iraq, bringing the total American military presence to about 160,000 troops.

Alas, most Americans do not understand that a quiet troop level increase -- a post-surge surge, if you will -- has been underway for some time. According to this story...

The United States' troop numbers have climbed to a record 168,000 and are moving toward a peak of 172,000.

The 4000 troop reduction thus stands exposed as the tawdriest sort of publicity gambit. Any "withdrawal" would be nothing of the kind. In fact, it would provide political cover for an 8000-troop increase. 12,000 minus 4000 equals 8000, if my math is correct.