I am very pleased and proud that the elections had such a phenomenal turnout, and although we will have to wait to see what the end result is, this is a HUGE leap toward democracy in a country that hasn't seen a fair election in more than half a century. It's impossible to say how this will turn out and whether democracy will be a success in Iraq, but the simple fact that Iraqis finally had a choice should have us all smiling, regardless of whether or not you agree with the military actions by the U.S. I also have to say I am ashamed of the partisan reaction on this board and around the WWW. The attempts to downplay or negatively spin this momentous event are everywhere and they are appalling. Bush may not have had proper justification for invading Iraq. That's a matter of opinion, and I totally understand those who opposed the action. But Iraqis voted yesterday. They voted, and in great numbers, despite threats and actions of violence against them. We've given them an opportunity, and they've taken step 1 toward taking advantage of it. I, for one, am proud. Of Iraq, and of our soldiers who made the elections possible. Does this end justify the means? That's still up for debate. But this is a big deal, and it does make a difference, so trying to spin this into an opportunity to attack Bush is transparent and disgusting.