The Democrats just don't get it. To them posturing that they are tough on defense and international affairs issues is enough to prove to the public that they aren't the sissies the Republicans always label them. But I know the public is smarter than that. The public actually does pay attention to actions as Arianna Huffington ably describes:

While the rest of the country is dealing with the here and now -- exemplified by Bush's puny approval ratings and this new poll showing rural voters turning against the GOP's handling of Iraq -- the Beltway's Democratic dinosaurs are acting like it's 2002. For them, Bush still has credibility on Iraq, Democrats still need to tread lightly in opposing the war for fear of alienating red state and swing voters, and Iraq is still a right vs left issu

When the Democrats caved in the public took notice, Congress' approval ratings slid and liberals like myself grew despondent.

Acting tough like Bush does, is one thing. Being tough, showing leadership in the face of a blowhard, blustering fool is quite another. The Democrats in Congress failed that test.