I don't want to call it only cosmetic, because these things do have an effect, but how profound the effect is, that I would question. Much of this is not about policy, it's about motion. It shows that they are responding; that they are moving.

These subtle alterations can make a huge difference. They can have a profound effect.

A big, bipartisan vote sends a message to the Iraqis and the White House. It's very, very significant.

There's no question it's a new strategy. Coming to Charlotte, as well as going to Cleveland, is not what used to be known as a 'Rose Garden strategy.' It's not to jolly people up. It's an attempt to ... keep Americans behind him -- and patient.

We're getting some conservatives letting off steam at the moment,

Even in this context, I am not going to get too uptight about it. When (officials such as Griffin) make statements that can be interpreted as political statements, the government should not be underwriting it. You just caught the fellow with a little egg on his vest, looking untidy.