Bush's Republican rebellion increases

Last Modified: 12 Jul 2007
By: Sarah Smith

It's a rebellion that's gaining momentum. Today another Republican senator abandoned President Bush's policy on Iraq - embracing a bill that would see a US withdrawal begin in just 120 days.

The bill could be vetoed by the President is passed. But the White House is so concerned it dispatched Condoleezza Rice, and senior officials, to plead with Republicans in Congress for more time.

Already the war has claimed its first victim in the Presidential race. Senator John McCain - once the front runner, has seen his campaign implode, and his poll ratings collapse because of his continued support for the President.

The president was hoping for some good news today as he opened new White House press room, but his own Republican senators do not like his decisions now and are trying to force him to set a date to leave Iraq.

The Democrats are targeting the Republicans with slim majorities - supporting the president now costs votes.

It has cost presidential candidate John McCain dear. As he was speaking up for staying the course, his campaign was collapsing - his manager and chief strategist deserting.

Supporting the failed immigration bill and trying to limit campaign finance cost him both money and popularity

His unwavering support for the war seems scarcely credible when he declares Baghdad much safer whilst surrounded by heavy security.

Voters are coming to realise the next commander-in-chief is the one who is really going to have to sort out Iraq. So the frontrunner Hillary Clinton is trying to overcome her vote for the invasion and meet the public mood of disenchantment.

If the Congress does pass a bill setting a date for troops to start coming home from Iraq, the president can veto it. But it still matters.

George Bush once said he won't withdraw from Iraq even if Laura and his dog Barney are the only ones who still support him. But that may not be enough support for him to continue his current strategy.