Reply #20: I made no mind reading claims

[BootinUp]

"You claim that Bush was somehow serious about inspections and that he really really didn't want a war,"

I made no statement on Bush's intentions. I don't think it was obvious what his intentions were (as we now know). I was surprised at his audacity in Feb and March and doubted he was so stupid as to invade Iraq. The day of the bombs dropping I was just walking around in a numb state and quite worried at the mess we were in. I thought maybe it would be a limited attack to try and kill Hussein, still doubting they planned an occupation.

One thing you seem to misunderstand. Bush could have bombed them and invaded with or without that Senate Resolution. As you say he had deployed forces before the resolution was signed. Presidents don't need a war resolution to carry out military operations or at least it is an unresolved question.

I think you are mistaken about the status of the inspectors in mid October. Still looking for that info.