As soon as the Democrats form and announce what I'm calling an Iraq "action" project rather than a "study" group the better. When Americans put the Democrats in charge of both houses of Congress, they did so expecting a plan and action on Iraq. We know that the House has been totally occupied since the election in selecting their next majority leader. However, I hope they do not recess for Thanksgiving without at least announcing the formation of such a group.
What I would like to see this group do is quickly begin a process of "listening to Iraqis" (and other players in the Mid East) by holding hearings that include members of the Iraq Parliament representing all factions (Sunni, Shia, and Kurds), Sheiks (tribal leaders), and leaders of the resistance. These hearings could begin as soon as the new government is sworn in on the 3rd of January. Within a few weeks the Democrats should be able to devise a plan that considers what the Iraqis themselves want and think is possible. Then the Democrats can start negotiations with the administration, which as we know, is already working on its own plans. Yes, the Baker Hamilton Iraq Study Group is bipartisan, but many of the people I speak with are not interested in only hearing from them.
Now that John Murtha is not responsible for the job of Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, I urge him to focus his undisputable organizing skills, talents and relevant experience on Iraq.
America wants action on Iraq now! The Iraqis whom we have heard from were practically pleading for action, for the end of the killing and kidnapping and terror. (I accompanied Jim McDermott on his recent trip to Amman, Jordan where he met with Iraqis and others -- see note.) They want their lives back. Our soldiers are dying and that must stop.
So here is the timeline. The Democrats announce the formation of this group today. Murtha agrees to lead the group and is selected to do so. As soon as the Congress returns after Thanksgiving Recess, December 4th, the group is formed. As soon as the new Congress convenes on January 3rd, hearings should begin that bring in Iraqis and representatives of the other countries in the region. The Democrats then produce a plan and start negotiations with the administration.
Americans are waiting for the Democrats -- let's not disappoint them.