The big news two hours before the polls close in Iraq (6:30am CST)? Between 800 and 1000 people in line to vote in Fallujah. Okay, I don't know if I trust the reports from anywhere outside of the Green Zone in Baghdad, but there are lines to vote?

Back in November, long lines to vote in the United States were evidence of conspiracy and voter surpression and intimidation. Given what is happening in Iraq today, perhaps we can put to rest the idea that lines are evidence of voter intimidation. When more people want to vote than can fit into the available voting booths (something that happens on a regular basis), excess demand causes lines. Maybe our good friend Henry Waxman, who has asked the GAO to investigate the long lines here in the States last November (letter here, more pressing issues here), needs a memo.

Initial reports suggest that the Iraq vote took place with less than thirty killed, and more than 70% voter turnout, including women. There are a lot of things different and, perhaps, lacking from this election, but if it had been predicted in January 2003 that an election of any sort would be held in January 2005? Who would have taken action on that?

How will the Dems and the anti-Bush folks play it now? Thirty percent didn't vote so the election is invalid?

A tip-o-the-Depken-hat to the Bush administration (people if not philosophy) and our soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen.