PERFECT PITCH: The president has played the post-election game extremely well too. Bush was wise to stay low-key yesterday and give a press conference today that focussed on Iraq and Homeland Security. As I argued this morning, his main priority is the war on terror, which must include the disarmament of Iraq. I couldn't think opf a smarter message than: "The election may be over but the terrorist threat is still real." It's not just good politics; it's right. It looks as if we may have a workable U.N. resolution by Monday at the latest. Then we need to mobilize for war, ready for action within days of any Iraqi quibbles about inspection. I'm still leery of sending inspectors, but U.N. support is helpful in our campaign for greater international security. Bush gets this. And he gets the need for caution and prudence in the wake of this victory. My heart sinks at the thought of Trent Lott's political instincts guiding the new majority. But so far, at least, it looks as if this result will give Bush essential control. And his instincts remain sound. Phew.

-- Anonymous, November 08, 2002