Quote(s) for the week.

1) "I know there’s more bi-partisanship now — because I’ve been criticized by both parties."
- Gov. Fletcher, quipping to a reporter regarding the merit system investigations and its effect on his chances for re-election.

2) "Anne Northup would be a formidable candidate and could win both in the May primary and the November election."
- Senator Mitch McConnell, in a "non endorsement" of Rep. Anne Northup's expected run for Kentucky Governor.

3) "This war is President Bush's Vietnam."
- Senator Ted Kennedy, Democrat of Mass., reacting to a possible call for a 'surge' of troops in Iraq and announcing he will file a bill to fight it.

4) "Where mistakes have been made, the responsibility rests with me."
- President Bush in a speach announcing his new Iraq policy and acknowledging the "buck stops" with him.

5) "I think this speech given last night by this president represents the most dangerous foreign policy blunder in this country since Vietnam if it's carried out."
- No, not another Democrat, but Republican Senator, Chuck Hagel of Nebraska.

6) "I would rather see us maintain our current level and get them out of harm's way and put Iraqi security forces in harm's way."
- Senator Jim Bunning (R-KY), one of President Bush's staunchest supporters, expressing his 'skeptism' on a U. S. troop 'surge' in Iraq.

7) "I believe the American people, if they feel we are making progress, they will have the patience. I think the frustration is that they think we are not making progress."
- Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, American operational commander in Iraq.