Democratic Sen. Carl Levin AP PHOTO

As Bush met with the Iraq Study Group on Nov. 13, the Democrat in line to lead the Senate Armed Services Committee, Carl Levin of Michigan, said the administration does not see that "we're getting deeper and deeper into a hole."

Levin and other Democrats called for some troops to come home now, suggesting that would pressure the Iraqi government into assuming more responsibility.

Asked about proposals by Levin and others for a phased troop reduction, Bush said, "I believe it is very important for people making suggestions to recognize that the best military options depend upon the conditions on the ground."

Opposing views could deadlock Congress on the matter. While Republicans have the majority until the new session begins in January, they do so by a slim margin. And when Democrats take over, they too will have a razor-thin majority -- far short of the 60 votes needed to cut off delaying tactics.

Even before the Iraq Study Group's work is finished, the panel's report is widely seen as an opportunity to give the campaign-weary Democratic and Republican parties a chance at consensus -- or at least a framework for agreement.

The Japan Times Weekly: Nov. 18, 2006
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