In the sense that they raise awareness about issues that are being ignored, they do a good job.

Katrina has changed many things but I don't think it will change Iraq policy. There is almost no elasticity in that policy.

It will be hit-and-miss and won't get you instantaneous revolution, but there are few options and it's worth a try.

The United States ought to have the upper hand on these nuclear proliferation questions and yet it seems that the North Koreans, the Iranians and even our friends the Indians are able to dictate terms to us without fear of consequence.

There can be a deal but it involves action on the Indian side and right now all the signals are that the Indians think the only action that needs to happen is concessions from the U.S..

On the one hand, you have the feeling he is doing it to show (the US) he is independent, on the other hand you have the feeling that he is going to cover his odds.