That's it, then…

…after spending billions of American dollars and sacrificing the lives of 2558 American troops, we're reduced to this…

MR. SNOW: No, because the primary point of emphasis in the relations between the United States and Iraq right now is guaranteeing the security of Baghdad, and also making sure that Iraqi democracy works, and works effectively.

Just how "effective" is a "democracy" that can't secure its own capitol without the presence of an occupying force?

For that matter, how "effective" is a "democracy" that isn't safe in its own capitol even with the presence of an occupying force?