I noticed Rangel uses what has become a frequent talking point of the left: that in the last election the voters sent the message “Get out of Iraq.”

Is there a shred of evidence for that? Yes, plenty of voters were undoubtedly registering disappointment with lack of progress in Iraq, and many clearly believed it was time for a new strategy.

But didn’t the removal of Rumsfeld, Abizaid and Casey accomplish that? Is there really polling to suggest that most Americans are ready to pull the plug on Gen. Petraeus’ strategy and mission?

If not, isn’t it high time this talking point was challenged?