Bush considers accelerating Iraq election timetable

[kskiska]

WASHINGTON, May 25 (Reuters) - The Bush administration is considering moving faster toward self-rule in Iraq by bringing forward the date for its first national elections from next January to as early as this fall, people familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.

Some administration officials have resisted the idea, arguing that the violent turmoil in the country would preclude holding elections any sooner than January for a national assembly, which would then pick a transitional government.

But the White House is seriously considering accelerating the timetable, sources said. It is seeking input from the United Nations on whether it would be feasible to hold elections this fall or winter, a few months ahead of schedule and closer to the Nov. 2 U.S. presidential election.

"Obviously we want to see it done as soon as possible, if we can, if it's feasible," said one source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

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