It may take decades to train Iraqi forces to take control of their country.

The top U.S. military commander in Iraq, Gen. George W. Casey Jr., predicted last week that Iraqi security forces would be able to take control of the country in 12 to 18 months. But several days spent with American units training the Iraqi police illustrated why those soldiers on the ground believe it may take decades longer than Casey's assessment.

Seventy percent of the Iraqi police force has been infiltrated by militias, primarily the Mahdi Army, according to Shaw and other military police trainers. Police officers are too terrified to patrol enormous swaths of the capital. And while there are some good cops, many have been assassinated or are considering quitting the force.

"None of the Iraqi police are working to make their country better," said Brig. Gen. Salah al-Ani, chief of police for the western half of Baghdad. "They're working for the militias or to put money in their pocket."

A good rule of thumb is to take anything that the Bush administration tells you and believe just the opposite and there you will find the truth.

The Republicans are spending millions of dollars to create a new reality that suits their needs, but for those of us who have been paying close attention none of that will do them any good.

If you are a voter who is confused by the conflicting messages coming from the two political parties then you have a responsibility to educate yourself for the good of yourself, your children, and your country.