There is nothing more heartening for a scientifically objective American journalist than to see the results of a public opinion poll that shows the American people waking up to the facts.

According to the latest Associated Press poll and story, Americans are now realizing there will be no such thing as a "clear-cut victory in Iraq," in direct contradiction to the Bush-Rumsfeld propaganda as recently as today and yesterday.

Bush talked about "victory" in Iraq in a press conference with British Prime Minister Tony Blair Thursday, and outgoing Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld seemed to plead for more time as he delivered his farewell to Pentagon employees Friday.

Rumsfeld Bids Farewell to Pentagon

This quote is not in the AP story, but from watching the event on cable TV, Rumsfeld also said we could "win" in Iraq "if only the American people would give us more time."

But the AP poll shows a growing number of Americans doubt the country will achieve a stable, democratic government in Iraq, no matter how or when the U.S. gets out of this quagmire and civil war.

Dissatisfaction with President Bush's handling of Iraq has climbed to an alltime high of 71 percent, according to the poll, which found that only 27 percent of Americans approved of Bush's handling of Iraq - down from his previous low of 31 percent in November.

Goodbye, Mr. Rumsfeld, and thank you very much - for blowing our country's standing in the world and leaving the Middle East in chaos.

And good luck Mr. Lame Duck President Bush. Your time is almost up...