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01/30/2005:

"Iraqis Brave Bombs to Vote in Their Millions"

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Some came on crutches, others walked for miles then struggled to read the ballot, but across Iraq, millions turned out to vote Sunday, defying insurgents who threatened a bloodbath.

Suicide bombs and mortars killed at least 27 people, but voters still came out in force for the first multi-party poll in 50 years. In some places they cheered with joy at their first chance to cast a free vote, in others they shared chocolates.

Even in Falluja, the Sunni city west of Baghdad that was a militant stronghold until a U.S. assault in November, a steady stream of people turned out, confounding expectations. Lines of veiled women clutching their papers waited to vote.
Full Article: reuters.myway.com

Since no international observors were present, there is no reason to believe the 72% voting rate in Iraq. But articles such as these and triumphalist statements from the U.S. can be expected over the next few days.
And I have to admit, listening to the BBC reports, it is difficult not to be moved by people braving death to vote. Of course, the people of Iraq need similar courage to go to the grocery store, and some don't make it home. The civilian death toll in this war is estimated at 100,000.
It should surprise no one that people leap at opportunities to live in free societies. But this universal human desire is being manipulated to suit the aims of people for whom 'freedom' as most of us understand it means nothing of the kind.
I would be interested to see an exit poll that asked voters if they wanted the U.S. out. I'm quite sure no one bothered. It isn't happening.
Bush's State of the Union speech is Wednesday, which gives insight into the timing of the election. Condoleeza Rice is on tv this morning with a tear in the eye for the valiant Iraqis. If only she knew.