TPM Reader GG advances the point ...

I'm convinced that one of the primary reasons this administration doesn't want a timetable is that it would pin them down on what they are trying to do, how long they think it will take, and what it's going to cost. It would start to make them accountable. This drivel about not wanting the insurgents to know when we will be leaving is just bunk. It's easy to create a timetable with enough latitude and thresholds to allow the flexibility to alter or delay troop movements. I would hope that troops would be moved in progressive stages and positions, so that if setbacks occur we can reverse course.

The administration's position is geared to hiding as much as they can from us. Accountability is not a word in their vocabulary. The Dems need to keep pushing for a flexible timetable with thresholds set for Iragi army and security force levels and competence. While there should be some flexibility to accommodate setbacks, the only way we can get Iragis to really step up is to provide them with reasonable deadlines. A timetable will also have an positive impact on all the reconstruction efforts (such as they are) and force them to a timetable of their own, which would also create some accountability.

Bottom line is this administration doesn't want to be accountable.