The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

jim.crowder@devilbissshc.com — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:13:19 GMT

ANOTHER REASON WHY AMERICA HATES WASHINGTON

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

helloboyd, Skagway, AK — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:39:39 GMT

Far from the worst. Keep trying.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Dennis Amery, WI — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:53:14 GMT

No surprise here. If I produced shoddy work I wouldn't get paid. Therefore maybe we need to get our money back and possibly send the crooks to jail. That is what we still do with our criminals isn't it?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Blane, Springfield, Ma. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:58:46 GMT

How about telling us the good that has been happening over there, schools, hospitals, powerplants, etc....
You guys always have to find fault with Americaa and/or Americans

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Love, Decatur, Ga — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:58:52 GMT

This is another example of huge waste of american taxpayer dollars. Jobs are outsourced or in-sourced. We pay for the Governement to ruin this Nation. The Rich gets Richer and the Poor gets Poorer. In ten years there will be two classes, Rich and Poor. The Middle will no longer exist.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Harold Chattaway, Ashby, MA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:00:39 GMT

Yet, according to McCain, we have won in Iraq! If your definition is billions of dollars wasted in projects like this, over 4 thousand dead service men, 10's of thousands wounded, 10's of thousands Iraqs dead, millions of refugees, many 100's of billions of dollars gone, thousands of soldiers calling suicide hot lines, all for a country that had nothing to do with 9/11...well then I guess we did win.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

John Stuart, Albuquerque, NM — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:05:59 GMT

Who is held accountable for this waste of resources?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

cleo freeman kingman az — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:14:07 GMT

how come nobody is charged/prosecuted ,be it goverment employee/contactor, for this???? don't send it to a washington committee as that is just a photo op for the senators

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Deb Culmer, Santa Cruz CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:16:33 GMT

The complete lack of accountability for this travesty of a war is just appalling.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

The Cheese Man, Ballston, Virgina — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:24:03 GMT

Why didn't your story name the prime contractor? Describe what discipline or punishment is being meted out (yeah, let's laugh.) Whose military or civil service career was affected by this. Who in the Bush administration takes ownership for this? Can we associate this "success" with the Surge? What would John McCain say about this jail?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Vance Jochim, Tavares, FL — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:26:18 GMT

Thanks to Aram for this info and overview of the SIGIR audit report. It would help if more info was provided on which funding source paid for this. Was it IRMO, or DoD direct funding, or MOI funds, INL, etc? They need to be clearly named, although you did mention the Corps of Engineers. And, who were the construction firms? When i was in Iraq from 2004 to 2006, I also experienced heavy turnover of contracting officers (mostly military) since they changed like confetti - flitting in and out of Iraq in periods as short as two months (Air Force) and variable levels of experience. See more on other Iraq reconstruction problems at http://webworks.typepad.com/corruption_in_iraq/ .

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bruce, NH — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:26:38 GMT

The most shocking part of this is that I'm not at all surprised. And the government has the gall to be self-righteous when people think their taxes are too high!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Steve , Elizabethtown,Ky — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:31:42 GMT

This is a disgrace. This country is going under
and McCain thinks "we have won".Bush has given over $1 trillion in tax breaks to his buddies and now we face a record deficit and he still wants to make his tax breaks permenant. I guess he thinks "we have won" also. This is very tragic, when will we finally wake up as Americans and vote all of these rich politicians out of office and then we can finally declare that "we (the people) have won".

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Schneider — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:34:14 GMT

Your tax dollars at work. Forty million dollars for a prison nobody asked for or wanted, but we figured they'd need it because we happen to be invading. America trying to push prison culture on other countries.. "PUT YOUR POPULATION BEHIND BARS SO YOU KNOW WHERE THEY ARE!" -America

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

TRW, Winston_Salem, NC — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:39:02 GMT

Can someone explain to me how an ambassador (Paul Bremer, a Presidential appointee) can be given the responsibilty to preside over the occupation of a country? Is he not also responsible for building a $700 million dollar embassy in Iraq? If this dow\esn't send up a red flag somewhere, there must be a lot of people turning a blind eye to what is really going on in Iraq

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ralph Kelly Fall River Ma. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:39:35 GMT

What do you except from our government. The people in America are having hard times now and the government is still spending big bucks every where else but here in America.Living cost are hitting all or us , but as we all no,the rich get richer and the poor get screwed??

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Adrian Eaton — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:41:08 GMT

This complex should immediately be re-named the "George W Bush Legacy", except such a monument should stand for a 1,000 years, and this one is so shoddy it might not outlive his reign.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Vladimir Ulyanov — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:48:59 GMT

A good sized city will have mismanaged programs that 'waste' this kind of money -- as numbers go, it isn't much in a multi-billion dollar budget.

Should it have been managed better? Yes. Are there problems in program oversight, in Iraq and elsewhere? Yes. Is government worse at this than industry? Maybe. Industry is as capable as anyone else when it comes to changing horses midstream, failing to identify priorities, et cetera.

Hardly a hanging offence, and not even likely the 'worst case' described in the title.

V

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

John Smith — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:49:59 GMT

When will people wake up. It's been like this from the first minute the first politician realized he/she is set above the people they are suppsed to work for, beyond reproach, and can spend other people's money any way they want, mostly to enrich a friend, definitely to enrich themselves, and then laugh at you and me for being the scum under their feet that do the real work of making wealth and not realizing it.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Nancy, Brandon, Florida — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:54:40 GMT

Nothing is as bad as all of the electrocution deaths because of Halliburton's and KBR's shoddy wiring - our servicemen are getting electrocuted in the shower, for God's sake!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Sally Saffer, Atlanta, GA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:57:00 GMT

That is why you see a ground swell of folks who are forming a grass-roots, internet-based, self-funded new political system; and are willing to bet on someone. Right now it looks like Obama is the only candidate even close to bringing reality and new energy. But he's going to need lots of help because even now there are "old guard" politicians who want to see him diminished and even distroyed. What would happen if all the lies and deceptions are placed at the feet of those who are responsible. As of now, Washington operates based on insanity. There doesn't seem to be anyone to blame for anything in this "war debacle." Is our government really at the point of being run by greedy and/or foolishly ignorant people? We have to dismantle the system to rid it of "the policies of the labyrinth," where nothing ever ends and no criminal action is ever pursued in government. Our failure to impeach Bush and his administration for actual crimes IS a crime in itself; and yet this is the same government who saw fit to impeach a sitting president after he had sex with an intern and lied about (like any other normal person would when caught in an embarrassing act)! THAT is insanity. No wonder Americans have become disgusted by their own government.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

RO in Reno — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:03:41 GMT

Let me tell you how and why the Bush Administration has used "no bid contracts"
I have worked with KBR Haliburton and Bechtle in my 30 years in construction.
First they are sometimes called "best value contracts" because they are supposedly based on work actually preformed, the Govenment is billed for tools, materials, labor and management at cost plus 35%.
Sounds good but the fact is the first thing that happens is they put as many people on the project as possible, each one represents profit.
That might be a good thing except the people that are hired are unskilled, usually from southern states the only true requirement is they are breathing.
When you consider of every 3 billion 1 billion of that is profit, another billion goes to wages (tax free) that ultimately benefits the states like Alabama Ga, Texas etc.
The remaining goes to materials and management and they only buy from "approved" sources.
The lack of skills is the reason for the quality problems in both Iraq and Afgahanistan.

Cheney learned this from Lyndon Johnson (Brown and Root was the no bid contractor in Viet Nam)and was intrumental in acquiring Brown and root by Haliburton. All they needed was a war and the cash cow would produce not millions as with LBJ but billions.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Pat O'Grady, Tucson, AZ — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:08:47 GMT

I have read all of these comments, tragically most of them hit the nail on the head. It definitely is TIME FOR CHANGE. We have lost a treasure here in our United States--the American "middle class". We have made this country what it is--we want it back!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

David Peevers — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:10:23 GMT

I'm no liberal and I'm no conservative but I have a deep hatred for the way that the republican hierarchy has always managed to pidgeon hole everyone into one camp or another. As Americans, we are all complex and sometimes contradictory. But if we are honest - and have our eyes open - we'll admit to having the ability to change our views, based on simply having been able to think things over for a while. This report of yours on yet another debacle in the contracting 'smorgasbord' in Iraq should awaken anyone with a brain still between their ears. I thought that after 9/11 George Bush would take the country in the right - and dignified - direction and capitalize on the love and support that the rest of the world was ready to shower on us. Instead, Bush has overseen a train wreck of our country and its ideals. As he - and top Nazis - famously said; 'You're either with us or against us.' I never thought I'd say this but, Bush, my president. I'm against you.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

John Cottle — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:13:48 GMT

Look closer and you'll find that through a maze of connections, this will wind up at the steps of a U.S. based contractor with strong ties to the white house. $40M of the taxpayers money diverted to someone's pocket through a sweetheart deal and it's likely only the tip of the iceberg.

The Bush administration has been one of the absolute most corrupt and deceptive entities to ever take seat in the white house. They have put this country into a recession, bankrupted millions of families, put them in foreclosure and allowed wall street to bilk us out of our savings and investments. They will leave taxpayers holding a 460 billion bill while they laugh all the way to the bank.

This prison should be put to good use. Maybe the Bush administration can warm some of the cells.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

minsy thompson — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:15:21 GMT

These are the same people that our running our country ( into the ground ) . Too bad this is not on the regular news stations, maybe the Bush Administration and its croonies would then be proscuted if the average American new what was going on and would demand accountably.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Greg, Houston, Texas — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:34:49 GMT

What NEW energy is Obama going to bring us? So far his only energy policy is to tax the oil companies? What alternative fuel can we switch to today? None!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

stefani houseworth, calhoun, missouri — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:36:04 GMT

Don't we need more prisons for our criminals?
This is perfect...ship them over to Iraq and we could put the Iragis to work as guards.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Mark P, M, Michigan — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:37:15 GMT

If this is "The Worst" case of rebuliding, than we are in great shape. Of course there are numerous cases of mismanagement, we are talking about the Govt. Democratic or Republican. Taking a shot at McCain about this a cheap shot, It is a Demcratic controlled Senate with all of the oversight powers.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Mike Reed, San Antonio, Texas — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:42:33 GMT

$40 million would have paid for a few teachers in some of our school districts here. I dont understand why we just dont take a page out of our of history and do what Nixon did ... declare victory and go home. Like Vietnam ... Iraq will sort itself out on it's own. We have set the groundwork ... let the Iraq's take it from here.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Matt, Omaha, NE. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:45:11 GMT

It is time to call a spade a spade, when $40 million is spent on behalf of the United States, it is the goverment making the call but the taxpayer that is footing the bill. The news needs to begin relaying this, and instead of "It cost the U.S. government $40 million to build ...", this should read "It cost the American people $40 million to build ..." The should get us fired up again about spending.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Marilyn Sneed, OKC — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:45:22 GMT

Begs the question, AGAIN, why are we there??!!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

H. Lewis Stepp, Newport News, VA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:47:16 GMT

I would like to know some of the contractors involved in this construction effort. I know you had the info when this article was wrote, but you never identified them. We have heard through other media's (TV, etc..) about the poor mis-management of our taxes. When the Iraq government said no to the prison do they pay for any of this debt.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

PAM HELMS MT MORRIS MICH — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:50:05 GMT

WHY IS NO ONE ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS MONEY OF THE AMERICAN CITIZENS?
WHO DECIDES HOW THIS IS BEING SPENT OR APPARENTLY JUST HANDED OUT.
PRESIDENT BUSH,
WHY IS OUR TAX DOLLARS BEING WASTED LIKE THIS ... (ON YOUR WATCH)?????
YOU OWE US AN EXPLANATION & IS YOUR JOB TO LOOK AFTER OUR OUR MONEY YOU SEND OVER THERE.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Susan, PacNW — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:51:16 GMT

blane, the press does report on all the good we're doing. The problem is that it only takes up about .5 column inches a month. They report on what matters, and what matters today is the horrendous amount of money and resources (let alone human life) we have poured into Bush's Folly.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Mr.Goppy — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:53:26 GMT

Just 40 million? Seriously friends, were america here, 40 million is chump change, we spend 40 million dollars everyday. every couple of hours, RIGHT THERE, another 40 million was just spent on unmanned arial and aquatic vehicles. No one cares.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

AVP in Tucson, AZ — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:53:35 GMT

I'd like the media to start following the money. Mention names, give us the facts so that "We the people" can take action. Otherwise they're also part of the problem.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Rob Patter, Boston, MA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:55:09 GMT

RE: Blane, Springfield, Ma.
Hello?? We invaded and created this mess. I suppose we could say we beat them in record time … that is positive I guess. Granted Saddam was evil … but so is the guy in North Korea. Are we going there next? Bush sent a video after the invasion and said we would not be staying … another lie apparently. If you look at our country’s history … we NEVER leave. Heck we are still in Germany and Japan after 60 years! And that was a REAL war with a valid cause!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Greg, Houston, Texas — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:56:02 GMT

So let me get this straight, this "stupid" president's adminstration was behind the 9/11 attacks, was behind Enron taking everyones retirement money, launched an illegal war for oil (or for Halliburton or his Cronies or whoever it is this week), raised oil prices ofr his oil buddies, made banks give out loans to people who couldnt afford to pay for them and then caused the housing bubble to pop so he could foreclose on all those people and caused a "reccession" by giving tax cuts to the "rich"? Does that about cover it?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

carol, Salem, MA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:58:03 GMT

Who is going to be held accountable for this? We need to write our representatives and demand that they investigate this and other waste and fraud perpetrated during this administration, with VP Dick Cheney at the helm (& earning record profits from Halliburton he'll collect after leaving office). Isn't there a law for prosecuting companies that have taken excessive war time profits? Where is the rage and anger about this? People are hurting financially at home and this kind of thing has gone on.

All the people who voted for Bush had to do was read the books about him & family before the elections. It was very clear that he ran every company he headed into the ground financially & didn't have a clue what he was doing.

I have an idea: let's reorganize our country. Democrats & Republicans and will live in separate parts of the country: Democrats & Independents will live in one half of the country & determine our own laws, be governed by our own Democratic process, taxed according to our own laws, etc. Republicans will live in the other 1/2 of the country and accordingly establish their own laws, control one another and feed off each other in perpetuity until they are all gone.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

DR Coppinger, Indianapolis, IN — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:58:07 GMT

Why should this surprise anyone. The Us wates so much money. I work for another federal agancy and we can't even get supplies to do our job. Yet we are responsible for paying the soldiers. The Bush administration should have all been impeached for this waste. The tax payers have burdens enough. Of course Bush would say, "This was a good idea at the time". I just wish he would say, "We are in a recession", and be done with it. Our elderly have three choices, buy food, buy medicine or buy gas, but yet they will waste 40 million on a structure that is not be used. Shame of the COR for this project.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

MFR in Topeka, Kansas — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:58:44 GMT

I think this building should beselected to house the Geo. W. Bush Library. I think it will be a lasting and fitting memorial to his administration. It might even prop up his "legacy" after he leaves office.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jimbo in Virginia — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:59:52 GMT

To paraphrase an old saw, stuff happens. The knuckleheads who want to immediately rush to blame a President of a country for a construction project in a another country probably couldn't build a toy building out of Lego blocks and know as much about contracting as Sumo wrestlers know about Slimfast meals. Perhaps in their zealousness to destroy the fabric of their own country thru constantly showing the world their own disloyalty, maybe they could find the energy to donate a little of their own time and skills, actually serve their country, and go over there and fix something they think is wrong...or can only Presidents of countries do that? 40 mil wasted on a project is but a drop in the bucket compared to the pork barrel projects of many of your own state representatives...to paraphrase another old saying, let he who is without sin cast the first stone, and he (or she) who doesn't have a clue what they are talking about, just keep your mouth shut.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

C. Walker, Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:59:59 GMT

I love reading these comments. If I just dropped in here from outer space, I would be convinced that America is filled with poorly educated, prescription addicted, freedom hating liberals. Someone call me when my Country is liberated from the lefties.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

littlebullet@msn.com — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:04:26 GMT

This is definitely the worst in Iraq but not the only worst. How about the 70 Million we spent to build a tomb for christopher columbus in Santo Domingo. They don't even know if its Chris or his brother---by the way this was done several years ago during a democratic reign so it isn't just the republicans its the whole bunch. At least we did better there than Vietnam where 50,000 died and we lost. guess we can't be all things to all people and we need to get back to what this country is all about and help only those who really need it. I don't think any of the idiots we have in DC can do it be them democrats or republicans---to much greed period
Sandra Jones, Tn

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Eric, St.Louis, MO — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:05:24 GMT

I'll tell you whose stealing all of our money, it's those stupid gas companies. Bush only invaded Iraq to get all of their oil and make a fortune off of high gas prices. The oil industry is making record profits while food and taxes are soaring! Our economy has gotten so bad that some of our largest companies are being taken over by foriegn companies like Anheuser-Bush less than a month ago. And the government is not helping by building prisons for people who don't want them with our tax dollars! This needs to stop NOW!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

G Korkin, Cincinnati — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:06:04 GMT

Who ever thought we could vote for a president who could not run a baseball team (they lost money) and an oil company (they lost money too). How do you think he could manage building a jail in the middle of nowhere, that nobody wanted, and by a person he put in charge who did not have the authority to build it?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Chuck Rogala, Casa Grande, AZ — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:06:41 GMT

I have lost all faith in the Rep & Dem's. Both parties are responsible for what they have done to this country and around the world. They are worse than a bunch of kids on the play ground. Throw the whole bunch out; we could do better with a bunch of high school freshmen in office. I am ashamed to say I voted for most of the people in office. I am ashamed in the office of the President, the Congress and the House of Rep.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Joe F., Beaufort SC — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:07:52 GMT

Only $40 million? Thats nothing. They probably spend more than that on toilet paper in the US Capitol. Bad management, sure. But they whole peace thing was screwed up from the start in Iraq.

Honestly, I want the SAME people who are running these projects to start picking stocks - I'll kow what not to buy then. Who would you rather have? A stock pickers who is wrong 99% of the time or one who is right 45%? I'll take the guy who is wrong 99% and do exactly the opposite. . .

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bess in WV — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:10:47 GMT

What are the names of the 18 contractors? We deserve to know who cheated our country, and make sure they receive no future U.S. contracts until reparations are made.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bess in WV — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:11:33 GMT

Outstanding suggestion by MFR in Topeka!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Joe Smuckley, McCordsville, IN — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:16:02 GMT

Why should this suprise anyone. Bush just takes this as a "Loss", it didn't cost hime anything, just the poor American people. While we are on welfare, food stamps and going to the dollar store, he rakes in millions from the oil companies. He's just saving up for those two "bastard" daughters of his. Do you think he borrowed money to put braces on their teeth, scrape to send them to college, wonder how he was going to pay his house payment, he didn't worry about any of this. But he continues to write checks for his war. Come election time, vote those idiots that approved this war, put the people in we can trust. And the next time we have a soldier die in his war, let him go to the parents or wife's house and tell them their son or husband has died for a "good cause". Ole GW bit off more than he could chew and his "good ole
buddy" network, put us so far in debt, we will never get out of it. All I can say, is, "rot in hell, with Sadam Hussein".

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Rex, Anchorage, AK — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:16:43 GMT

It's time to take our country back from these idiots who continue to drive it into the ground. How much more are we willing or able to take? Another election? Another candidate? Give me a break - it will just be more of the same until we all say "enough" and just throw the lot of them out on their ears and start again. "Of the People, By the People, and For the People?" Yeah right! Revolution anyone?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Steven Most, Carmel Valley, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:16:57 GMT

The bottom line is this: The deterioration of the quality of life in America will accelerate in large part because we are spending our precious treasure and attention in a distant land in an effort to secure access to an obsolete and deleterious energy source. Our distraction in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, etc. has the potential to bankrupt our ability to address massive public transportation, health care, energy and environmental needs. Even our only hope for a new direction, Barack Obama, has signed on to this policy of never-ending distraction/depletion. The notion that our national security is at stake because of the actions of theTaliban or Al-Qaeda in these nations is laughable. 911 happened because the nineteen men involved we able to access airliner cockpits, pure and simple. The world will never be able to rid itself of hateful people. The best we can do is to take away their ability to harm us.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Pam Amherst VA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:20:14 GMT

hey Mark P, M, Michigan - there has been no congressional oversite because the REPUBLICAN CONTROLLED CONGRESS didn't want any....remember the DEMOCRATIC PARTY did not take control of the congress until 2008...and if MCCAIN gets elected it will be a third bush term as far as i'm concerned. this will continue and cheney, bush and all their cronies will benefit at the expense of the taxpayer.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ric, Dover NH — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:20:41 GMT

The plan is so simple. I call it One for One and One for America. For every dollar spent in Foreign Confilct 1 dollar is spent in this country for Infrastructure, energy independence,health care etc. 1 For 1. Tell that to your representatives.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

LL, NY,NY — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:23:24 GMT

Blane
Apparently you didn't read the report that this is a report from our government, you know the people that WE elected to protect and serve our country. I would say that the 4K lives lost would is directly related to horrible planning. Georgie boy wanted Iraq AT ANY COST and as you can see another $40M for nothing. I agree with helloboyd that this is just one of the hundreds of cases where OUR tax money was wasted.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ted Simons, Nashville, TN — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:24:07 GMT

So...where does the buck stop? Harry Truman seemed to know and every American elementary school graduate since has heard it and should know. Especially the one masquerading as the President of the United States.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jennifer Austin, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:27:42 GMT

This is just another example of the decay and destruction of our nation and its values. We have no leadership in Washington to represent us and help us. Spending our tax dollars to fill the corporate coffers has done a job on our economy, our morale and our self-worth. We are no longer a proud nation that others admire. We are eroding like this wasted project and it is sad. We need to take back our country and clean it up and elect leaders who will help us do these things.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

rj,gainesville,fla — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:35:30 GMT

Well we have got to be the dumbest country in the world anyway because we re-elected thyis idiot.I guess I was the only one who saw what was comming about 4-5 years ago.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Doug Toronto Ontario — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:37:58 GMT

I am a Canadian and I feel sorry for my many US friends. I can't beleive Bush and Cheney have not been impeached! What the hell are you guys waiting for? They are both thiefs and lawbreakers!Everybody says Saddam was evil, what about Bush and Cheney?
We have had some bad ones but I don't think I have ever seen a Canadian or American gov't so corrupt and the lack of caring for their own people (unless rich).

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Gene B. , Sylacauga, Alabama — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:38:39 GMT

Were the Dixie Chicks trying to tell us something after all ??

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

k stamps — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:43:53 GMT

During medival times the policy was fiscal restraint at home and waste and war abroad.
the idiots in Washington are stuck 1000 years behind the times.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

FrankEFtLauderdalefl — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:48:33 GMT

com on man look who we are dealing with the second President Bush sonny boy went back to finish what daddy was unable to. clinton left office with a surpluss bush ate that up and caused a recission and you worry about 40 million how about the billions bush/cheany stole

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

me — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:50:58 GMT

Hey Aram!!

You know what shocks me? Not government waste, nope. What shocks me is a nationally syndicated columnist that can't put together grammatically correct sentences. I mean, really.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

VA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:50:59 GMT

This blood money. Whomever the contractors are, they should know that they collected the 4000 dead young americans blood money.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Sturgeon, Michigan — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:52:22 GMT

The name of the original contractor was Parson. They should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I wonder whom in the Bush administration is connected to Parson, just as Cheney is connected to Haliburton and probabaly is making FAT money on this war. What a conflict of interest!! Bush with the oil industry and Cheney with Haliburton. SHAME

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ryan, Tucson — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:53:10 GMT

I'm glad we can waste billions of dollars over there and I still can't afford healthcare for my family.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

John Doe, Berkeley, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:58:07 GMT

OK, so we know everythings screwed up and we're mad as hell. So what the heck are we going to do about it. Personally, I would like to see Bush and Co. be held fully accountable for their actions, and not just while away their retirement days on the ranch in comfort and splendor. Jail time for the both!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Dennis P, Berkeley, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 18:59:48 GMT

OK, so we know everythings screwed up and we're mad as hell. So what the heck are we going to do about it? Personally, I would like to see Bush and Co. be held fully accountable for their actions, and not just while away their retirement days on the ranch in comfort and splendor. Jail time for the both!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

elaine, new orleans, la — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:05:07 GMT

How can the contractors be blamed when it is a source selection board of government employees (none of which are suppose to have direct knowledge or conflict of interest on the project or procurment) who decide how the contract is written, what is a reasonable and fair value for services and who it will be awarded to. Everyone should know the contract is written by the government, awarded by the government and overseen by the government. Everyone should work within a government agency at least once. It is worth the knowledge...even if it does give you headaches and challenge your ethics.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Erick Carpenter — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:08:20 GMT

How can we uncover who is accountable, and then direct our "representatives" to hold them accountable?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Perry L. Jennings, Douglasville, Ga. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:08:25 GMT

This is the results of "Bush-onomics". He made billions for his wealthy friends and has left America broke and ruined. This 40 million is just the tip of the problems he has caused around the world.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Angela, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:08:27 GMT

CONTRACTOR: A Yahoo article on this same topic said Parsons Construction Group of Pasadena, California was the contractor. Not sure who all of the sub contractors were.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Dave O'Brien — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:10:39 GMT

"How about telling us the good that has been happening over there, schools, hospitals, powerplants, etc....
You guys always have to find fault with Americaa and/or Americans"

Are you serious? These are criminal misuses of our tax dollars, and you want the media to report on a bake sale in Ramalah?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

GI JOE, LAS VEGAS, NV — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:20:49 GMT

THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO TAKE OUT THE POLITICAL TRASH...THE SECOND ADMENDMENT...THE ONLY ADMENDMENT THAT MAKES ALL OTHER ADMENDMENTS POSSIBLE

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!!! BEFORE THEY ARE GONE!!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

David, Pearland, TX — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:20:57 GMT

The worst thing about this article isn't that the $40M was wasted (that does suck though), but instead that most of the people commenting say things like, "why doesn't the media "... do this or that. As American citizens, we have lost the idea that it is OUR responsibility to do these things. Accountability is just a word... a word that we like to pass on to our government because we are ignorant or too lazy to force them, as a whole, to make changes. It all boils down to complacency in the end... even the poorest of American's is doing pretty well, so we have little incentive to rock the boat... but things will soon change.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

GI JOE, LAS VEGAS, NV — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:22:31 GMT

DON'T BLAME THE CONTRACTOR ... IT'S THE GOVERNMENT THAT DIDN'T SEE IT THROUGH

WHO WROTE THE CONTRACT?...THE GOVERNMENT, NOT THE CONTRACTOR

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jonathan C, Jasper, AL — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:27:22 GMT

The comments on this page seem decidedly political, as in "This is why the Iraq war was a bad idea!" or "This is a clear case of media bias!" etc. Regardless of your feelings on whether Iraq was the correct decision or not (still open for debate), or whether or not the execution of the reconstructive effort was flawed in the first few years (a nearly unanimously accepted principle), we should all be outraged by the enormous waste of taxpayer (aka OUR) money.

If this happened in Milwaukee, we'd all roll our eyes and call this an complete waste of government resources. It's the same in Iraq. Don't let whatever position you have on the war influence that.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Norm Baillie, Exton, PA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:30:18 GMT

All this vitriol directed at Bush, for 40 million dollars over three years? If he and his cronies are that easily bought, thyey're even dumber than most of these commenters think, and so are they. This is chump change in the grand scheme of things. The Air Force, and the beloved private sector could blow that on a party for their sales people after a good year or on single minor project. Get real.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Indyjack — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:33:29 GMT

Pres Bush has promised that if anyone in his administration is found responsible for this leak... er waste, they will be forced to leave and take a job elsewhere... say- Halliburton.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

rebecca smith, memphis, tn — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:33:37 GMT

Sickening. This war is just a "money funnel" out of the american taxpayers pockets and into the pockets of developers. We barely do anything to reconstruct american areas when natural disasters hit (hurricanes, fires)yet spend billions on...well, what? I don't really know anymore.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Carlson, Atlanta, GA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:38:39 GMT

I agree with all of you. These rich old (mostly white) men who run this country are out of touch with reality and don't know what it means to live off $8, $10, $12 etc. per hour. All of our tax money is being wasted and yet 46 million Americans can't get health insurance and when you ask for it they say it's too expensive??? At least in Germany I got something for my tax money. But here? Not a thing! Seriously America, let's stop paying the bills for every country, charity starts at home. America, take care of your own people first.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Becky Upland, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:40:37 GMT

I agree with Bess in WW, we need to know the contractors that ripped the taxpayers off and the officals that were suppose to be providing oversight. We as American citizens and taxpayers need to have a way to demand more from our elected representatives.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Virginia C., Whittier, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:42:42 GMT

I am so sick of ALL the waste of our taxdollars. When is all this going to stop. I am really fed up with the way our so called government leaders are headed and it seems to be getting worse every year....

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Christina Brown, Louisiana — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:47:09 GMT

ok, yes, a major mess up. that does not mean that no good has come of the US being in Iraq. It also does not mean we got the WHOLE story.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Brown, Lexington, KY — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:49:01 GMT

Now do you understand why the US can't just go into a country and set up a democracy that hasn't had a democratic government in 2,000 years. We shouldn't be there.

This administration has costs US citizens billions of dollars in blunders. I'm telling you NOW, that if we don't take care of our own backyard (our home land), with the problems at hand, (Economy, employment, gas prices, education, transportation, housing. etc.), we won't have a backyard for the terrorist to bomb...

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Adamson , Bangalore — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:51:09 GMT

Looking the cost of the prison , we can conclude that the facilities inside are of such a type that the prisoners will be some VVIPs.
Let's wait n see , GEORGE W BUSH , the wholesaler of terrorism and his bloody companions will be captured by the poor Iraqi nationals and put inside this prison.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Smarka, Santa Barbara, CA — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:54:32 GMT

BLOGGERS: REPUBLICANS HATE US FOR OUR FREEDOM! THEY WANT EVERYONE WHO EXPOSES THEIR BLUNDERS AND BAD POLICIES TO JUST SHUT UP!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Kevin, Lincoln, NE — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:59:08 GMT

I always find it amusing that anyone who voices an opinion about the state of affairs of this nation that diverges from the administration's assessment from on high, they're immediately labeled "freedom-hating liberals." It kinda reminds me of when one school kid corrects another, and the only thing the other can come up with is, "YOU STINK."

Remember children, argumentum ad hominem is not a valid debate method!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ed Kelly, Atlanta, GA (edgerti@msn.com) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:59:29 GMT

Typical news from NBC, it is always bad. Too bad you guys didn't cover the Revolutionary War or the Civil War (or any other war) if you wanted some real "worst cases."

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

William Varnell, Whitwell, TN — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:04:45 GMT

I have no problem with sending these clowns who built this place to jail. Just don't send them to this one!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

WRCampbell Phx. Az. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:05:26 GMT

Wow! What comments. Throughout history the only constants were and are that the Rich and Powerfull become more Rich and Powerful and that everyone has too many children. So every society grows so far and then collapses. You can resist or help. Don't vote for bad choices and maybe oppose the really bad ones or try to get your cut. Throw your trash on the ground or seek out a trash can. It has been suggested that we need change, but what is that change? If we take all crooked politicians and send them to that prison (I like this idea) then we also need to send all the people who paid them plus their bosses who authorized the payoffs. The sweetest part will be that all the food and such will never get to them.
If more people do not work on stopping wrong then we will eventually be like all societies in history. WE WILL COLLAPSE. WE WILL HAVE A WORLD WIDE DEPRESSION AND EXTREME DIEBACK.
To be prepared I am going to go to the range for my regular practice.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

CliveBing, Colorado Springs, CO — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:07:25 GMT

Don't forget about the new U.S. Embassy under construction and scheduled to open in September. At a cost of $592 million, it will be the biggest U.S. Embassy in the world. It is about the size of the Vatican and will have its own power and water supply within its bomb-proof walls. I think it would be a good guess that it was intended to serve our country for our hundred year stay there. Now that this proposed stay has been reduced to a year and a half, the building could better serve as a monument to the stupidity, incompetence and crookedness of the Bush administration. Still, neither of these two buildings, the HQ and the prison compares to the one billion plus mostly bogus charges to the American people by Halliburton, and which was given about seventeen seconds coverage one evening by the broadcast channels and was never mentioned again.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

w. goin chicago, il — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:09:44 GMT

To Mark in Michigan: It just became a Democratic controlled Senate and House. And, neither has the number needed to make a decision without some Republicans joining them. So, try to put this on the Democrats but we all know it is the Republicans who okayed this kind of waste.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Seth, Phoenix, AZ — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:13:42 GMT

Mistakes happen on a daily basis! And there is a lot of information relating to Iraq that no one will ever know, but there seems to be plenty of arm-chair quarterbacking going on. At least the abandoned prison was only $40 mil. That's a mud puddle. Let's talk about Boston's Big Dig... $14.6 BILLION in order to complete it satisfactorily. At least the Iraqis have some structures. Where would the Big Dig be if it had been abandoned at $40 million... a sloppy useless hole in the ground? On another front, the Standish Group reported that the cost of failed tech projects/initiatives were estimated at $75 BILLION... that was in 1998. Do you think it's improved much since then? On the other hand, in 2006, ExxonMobil, the world’s largest publicly traded company, raked in $39.5 BILLION in PROFITS. That seems like a big problem. Not to mention we also have a mortgage crisis on our hands because people are just flat out irresponsible! This has little to do with Iraq. So are we working to improve conditions or working to improve our arm-chair quarterbacking? If we're going to point fingers, look first to your bedroom mirror. Then we'll be ready to fix some problems.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jim Salem, Wi — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:14:31 GMT

What's everybody getting all bent out of shape for? This type of thing goes on all over this country at all levels of government and no one seems to care about that. Taxpayers are screwed on an hourly basis but for some reason if we're ripped off domestically we just shrug our shoulders and say oh well. All of it is theft and you should be just as irate about it where ever it happens. Once a politician gets in office the only priority is to stay there and the only way they do it is handing out favors to friends and that's with both parties.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Drofnats, Medford, OR — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:24:08 GMT

you stupid people want to know who the contractors were ?? call your rep or senator on the phone not the internet or e and ask them until they tell you---i did and i know---now quit your crying and do something---

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Mike T. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:27:10 GMT

This is just one of many contracting nightmares (and money) that bush has given us to remeber him bye. Just a Few months longer and we can say goodbye. A new president today would be better.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Eve Smith, Honolulu, Hawaii — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 20:27:51 GMT

Interesting! We rationalized the war after WMD were not found by saying that the United States goal wants to establish democracy in Iraq. And yet the Iraqi government was not even consulted about this white elephant of a project. You cannot have democracy by dictating policy to a sovereign state. Of all things, a prison is not the best gift to a friend.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jane Brain — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:13:21 GMT

This war has brought many grievous injustices. "We the People" should also take responsibility for allowing ourselves to be divided over partisan politics and the myriad of other issues that plague the concerned populous. Instead of pointing fingers, which obviously has yet to rid us of the puppeteers, we, the American people should be looking for a way to unify and fix our country. Instead of leaving it up to someone else to screw up, we should all take accountability and find our place and our voice in the politics of our country. Democrat, Republican, or Liberal, we are all Americans. Until we take our places and recognize the power of the people to bring peace, we will remain in deadlock with people who passify the masses with small monetary tax cuts while the people in power thumb their noses at us and laugh, all the while padding their pockets with the sacrifices of our people, and for what? Will someone join me in sending a voice around the world that says, NO MORE. Not in my name and not in the name of a country I used to be proud of. I long for the day when I can once again say, I am proud of my country.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Charles Nunnelly, Oro Valley, AZ spatsy@comcast.net — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:24:52 GMT

Of course, the attack on IRAQ was planned long before the opportunity by the PNAC (look them up)by Cheney,Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Jeb Bush, and a host of others. They were encouraged by Iraqi exiles (Chalabi, etc.) and motivation simple, US domination of the Middle East and eventually much more. dYes, they had a dictator but they had schools, water, food and even a host of Christians and their churches, none of this is true today.
. The strategy, mostly of Wolfowiz's design, was to destroy all we are rebuilding today and ignore the State Department whose $700 million embassy has little use today (Mission Accomplished, George declared.).
In the final analysis, in spite of fake intelligence, it all has to go back to George who declared several times, "I am a War President". Every department that has failed is under his perview as head of the Administration. Congress gave away their authority to control the man and his FACTION which James Madison warned against so vigorously in Federalist Paper #10.
In our Republican Government, what can citizens do without revolt except wait for the next election? Our Congress did not declare WAR as only they can do, but opened the door for him to assume dictatorial controle against the Constitution and he continually waves his nose at them when challenged.
It is a big job for anyone but if "worked" at, the nation can still be recovered but we must look closely at that persons character, not his slick appearance or ego.
Much of the problem has been the secrecy that George implemented as soon as he took office as he did in Texas (You still cannot get as his papers there, they are in Daddy's care. One should study the idea of Character, it is a predictor of the future from evidence of a person's past. The prison as well as Sub-prime loans and all the other ills of this nation must be laid to "the boss". Any one seeking to climg Sisyphus' mountain will seek gain, anyone including dthe chudrch.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

JR, Phx, AZ — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:35:22 GMT

It's time to seriously consider criminal charges against Bush/Rumsfeld/Cheney/Wolfowitz/Perle and all the idealogues, contractors, and war profiteers who cheated us and the Iraqis of lives, money, and security. If not here in the US, than at the Hague.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

ACEGOLFR@HOTMAIL.COM — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:06:29 GMT

STOP CRYING AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT ALREADY, WE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE MUST UNITE AND BRING TO AN END THE CORRUPTION OF THIS GOVERNMENT, WHICH IS TAXING US TO DEATH AND POVERTY, BRING BACK THE BOSTON TEA PARTY ALREADY, IF THERE IS A WEBSITE THAT WE CAN ALL JOIN AND RALLY, LET ME KNOW SO THAT I CAN JOIN AND BRING TO AN END THE CORRUPTION OF AMERICA.

AMERICA THE FREE, SAN FRANCISCO,CA

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Don H, Denver, CO — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:29:40 GMT

Initial contractor on the Khan Bani Sa'ad Correctional Facility was Parsons of Pasadena.

Wonder if they're still in business?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Gary Ackerman Ocala Florida — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:13:08 GMT

Most Americans realize that until accountability is enforced, nothing will change. There has to be a method of holding elected and appointed "officials" to the fire for their derelection of responsibility, otherwise it will be more of the same. This is a good example why wwe are all so fed up with our beauracrats that we are grasping at straws, hoping that Obama will bring some "fresh" thinking. However, take a look at what Obama has squeezed out in "PORK, in the brief time he has been in Office. Again more of the same.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Culbertson_J@msn.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:16:14 GMT

Sure I'm irate that our government wasted $40 million on this prison in Iraq. However, I am even more irate over the $49 BILLION bill that congress passed and Bush signed for AIDs in Africa. I mean, like what has Africa ever done for us? Most of the countries there vote against us in the U.N. every chance they get. I say give that $49 Billion to the American people, and let the Africans handle their own AIDs problem. JAN in Chula Vista, CA.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Gary Ackerman Ocala Florida — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:16:32 GMT

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bob Hall — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:53:18 GMT

You cannot bring to trial a corrupt regime with a corrupt arry general. Pelosi and reid are enablers from the democratic party. People must stand up and say no more.Elect anyone other than a repug.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Matt M. from NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:39:10 GMT

Having just come back from Iraq, this is "The Standard". I have seen many Iraqi Army facilities built well below any type of code. The one in Muhmuhdiya (near where the two 10th Mountain Soldiers were captured), cost $24 million. The original cost was $8 million. The contractor quit claiming security concerns. We estimated $4 million was needed to finish it. When it went up for bid, the same guy bid to finish his own work for another $16 million! So yes, let's keep on raising our taxes so we can get this done right?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

ecurry10@yahoo.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:55:46 GMT

The contractors were not mentioned because they were Kick back contracts from the IED and Democrats in the house and senate. If it were Helliburton it would be plastered in every sentence. Ask Dodd and Pelosi adn Schummer about there contracting bussied in Iraq they have defunked on 95% of there contracts, adn still got paid.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Mick, Chicago, IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:55:48 GMT

Please reasssure me that Halliburton had nothing to do with this! In the olden days, 16-18th century, we had pirates who came to rob, pillage, rape and burn! These are the modern dayu pirates! And Congress sits by idly! At least that is the way it seems!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

ecurry10@hotmai.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 02:02:31 GMT

CarolforSalem Ma? LOL man are you ignorant. You live in one of the top 5 highest taxed states there is in the US. You have basically no rights, oure tax bracked it near 37% for low class and 57% for the top 1% of the people that live in the state. How can you be so disselusioned with what you live by, pay, make, and laws you live under. You can not legally carry a firearm, arm one unless its dissasembled, Own a car unless you pay god knows per year to keep it under the DMV's ridiculous guidlines, and youre welfare and other gov and state taxes are in the top 3 in the Nation, Second to NY and Hawaii. LOL. How about taxkign youreself into retirement in Florida because you can nto take it anymore after giving the State and Liberals all youre money. Ignorance abliss.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

carol, Salem, MA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:04:23 GMT

Who is going to be held accountable for this? We need to write our representatives and demand that they investigate this and other waste and fraud perpetrated during this administration. I believe I read somewhere that VP Dick Cheney will eventually earn profits from his connection with Halliburton (which is being deferred until he leaves office). Isn't there a law for prosecuting companies that have taken excessive war time profits and against those who in goverment who clearly have a conflict of interest? Where is the rage and anger about this? People are hurting financially at home and this kind of thing has gone on.

All the people who voted for Bush had to do was read the books about him & family before the elections. It was very clear that he ran every company he headed into the ground financially & didn't have a clue what he was doing.

I have an idea: let's reorganize our country. Democrats & right wing religious Republican zealots and will live in a separate part of the country: Democrats & Independents will live in one half of the country & determine our own laws, be governed by our own Democratic process, taxed according to our own laws, etc. Republicans will live in the other 1/2 of the country and accordingly establish their own laws, control one another & feed off each other in perpetuity until they are all gone.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

jess Fedup — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:10:58 GMT

If you really want an answer, I think the VICE PRESIDENT can tell us ,but he's probably unavailable for comment!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Kelly, Sugar Land, Texas — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:16:00 GMT

Why won't you tell us who is responsible for this fiasco? Are you afraid the contractors will sue you? If it's true, you have nothing to worry about.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jenn D., Albuquerque, New Mexico — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:22:06 GMT

WE as american must keep going as a country. Life is now harder but we still must strive. Yes the white house has done several stupid things, Even though we are in a war; We can't give up this is our way of winning. Gas can go up, everything can go up but one thing that will not go down is our faith in our country. This generation is still young, children are being born as we speak.... They have done nothing wrong with life; yet they live in a waste land. We cannot give up, Everything will change soon even if not i repeat this is our way of showing every other freaking country America is one. For we are one and we are all! If you people out there can't face this then you are not ready to face the world and this is coming from a younger generation.... i'm only going to be a teen and i already see this. We can't give in... nor can we give up

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jenn D., Albuquerque, New Mexico — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:23:59 GMT

And We America are at fault our selfs....

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jane Doe, Seattle Wa — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:30:12 GMT

Can someone please clearly describe what "Winning The War In Iraq" means?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

SFC Cruz — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 05:42:27 GMT

This is only skin deep, you all haven't seen with your own eyes, read reports and experience what happens here on the ground when it comes to reconstruction efforts in a hostile/combat environment. There is much more to be done, but we need a joint effort and a willingness to help achive good results, and when one side turns its back all other sides will have to work harder and eventually the weakest point will give out. The kinetic environment in which we operate he in Iraq is complicated, we try to force a western culture and system and expect this to work overnight, not easy! As you all can read the numbers are high and will not go away, it will get worse because in order to fix the problems you have to invest more money, and who is going to do that?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Wayne Pietraszewski, LaPorte, Indiana — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 06:13:59 GMT

Hey, let's finish this project and use it to imprison all the individuals responsible for this mess.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Robert Lawrence,Chalmette,LA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:30:34 GMT

First off the cost of construction in a War Zone is about $10 to $1 from normal US Construction second All the really good construction workers and Management may like the idea of making the big bucks to work in a war zone,but as soon as someone drop a granade or mortor round next to them. they are on a plane back to the states.the bulk of the money spend in Amreican War zones is spent on Contractor security.A big Rip off I agree.But this is a problem as old as the hinges of hell,you can't start to rebuild until all the bad guys are dead,if you do it will cost 10 times as much.And the best people for the job want to live,and can get a better job,"go figure"I could have told everybody this before we started this crap.Now you want your Money back,It's very cheap and easy to blow up somebodys house,there schools,there power plants,Next time America, lets just Blow there stuff up and go home.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

G Wood — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:52:20 GMT

Waste like that makes me want to cry. I can barely scrape up enough money to keep food in my house or gas in my car. and that is after cancelling satelite TV, not having health insurance, driving a 25 year old car, keeping the thermostat on 82 in the summer and 67 in the winter, selling everything I don't NEED, and everything else we do without. 40 million dollars pissed away on something they never wanted. Wow, it boggles the mind. Way to go USA.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

jorge, Detroit, MI — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 11:40:43 GMT

What gets me is that there seems to be so much anger and resentment here directed at the Bush administration and yet there have to be A LOT of you here who voted to reelect him. More than half the country wanted him back for a second term. Quite a few of you here need to get mad at yourselves and accept that you largely responsible for this. If there were this many people who thought George Bush should have been impeached in 04, we'd have another president and Bush would have been impeached. I'm more pissed at voters than I am at him.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

An average Joe, Diyala Province, Iraq — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 11:41:11 GMT

hundreds of tremendous successes in Diyala, and what does the media pick to talk about?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

James Boldman, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:29:24 GMT

Having read the article & the comments...here are some of my conclusions:
We're going into Iraq to save the World...not for the oil. NOW...several have said exactly what I & others were saying when jr's folly began.

The Dixie Chicks said they were ashamed that jr. was from Texas...so their music was banned from airplay. NOW...they weren't wrong...while I & others were saying they were right & felt the same way. The difference...we were "pinko/commie" idiots who were ahead of our time & saw what was going to happen...since success was something jr. was known for. Jr. could invoke the name of "his god" & wave the flag...so it was all alright.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Joe Del Ferro, Mesquite, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 13:20:44 GMT

Another reason this administration need to be held accountable and Bush impeached and the "Do nothing Congress" reelected.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Brenda, Kuwait — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:49:20 GMT

Yes, it is so easy to judge isn't it and so easy to accuse. However, it appears to be very hard to accept & realize the truth! Yes, the Iraqi government will put this building to use in the near future and it is not a loss or the "worst" reconstruction case in Iraq simply a projected project that has yet to be completed. Lack of knowledge has proven far fetched from the truth not even exposing the real cause of the work stopage. However, when it is completed; I would like to see the same reporters follow-up and the good that it will bring to this country in these troubled-times of desperate need. Worth 'ten-times' the cost that we, as so called Tax-payers have paid for... Accept reality people and stop pointing fingers. Start posting & feeding on the Good News that is happening over here on a DAILY BASIS of our REBUILD AND RECONSTRUCTION efforts that are by far, some of the best in the World, controlled and managed by your best defense contractors worldwide... Start getting your info. from the Americans over hear who live this novelty life on a daily basis and stop judging from the outside!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

r serena,connecticut — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:01:28 GMT

why dont we name this the george w bush mission accomplished victory monument.have a granite faceplate listing all of the private contractors and govt officials invoved with this fiasco listed.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Paul Mac — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:05:31 GMT

Honestly, I cannot blame people for misinformed opinions. Unless you are there, it is hard to understand. One of the reasons people who have been at aware can rarely speak about the experience to someone who was not there. This project was indeed a mess and I am personally aware of it. That said, it is in Diyala province, the heart of still the most dangerous ground in Iraq. It should never have been built - but the contractors were faced with virtually unsurmountable odds. Here is a few additional statistics. I know of a company that has constructed some 9 square miles of buildings under roof in four years. Per square foot cost in a war torn country - much much less that per square foot costs for most homes in America. Those are the facts. Over 500 schools remodeled. More than 200 Iraqi companies brought back to life. Thousands of lives positively affected. America - our treasure has been spent, and in days to come you will find it was worth it. That said - we still need to focus on our people on the homefront and do no less for them.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Ric, Dover NH — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:21:53 GMT

Yes Parsons is still in Business

Founded in 1944, Parsons, an engineering and construction firm with revenues exceeding $3.6 billion in 2007, is 100% owned by the Employee Stock Ownership Trust. We conquer the toughest logistical challenges and deliver landmark design-build projects across the globe. Our ability to plan, design, construct, and operate diverse facilities and infrastructure systems has satisfied our clients’ needs for more than 60 years. With more than 11,500 employees located worldwide, we team with an increasingly diverse group of global customers and stakeholders while providing dependable services. We measure our success one project at a time by exceeding expectations and satisfying our customers.

And they are into everything Just like Haliburton. Look them up at www.parsons.com

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

ac, jackson tn — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:32:58 GMT

Keep in mind while alot of you are now complaining, you voted for the idiot.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

david wayne osedach, san diego, CA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:52:13 GMT

Ultimately we will pull out of Iraq leaving the job half finished leaving a festering wound like Afghanistan.

The question is not how much more we can spend, but, how much we will.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bob, Lincoln RI — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:58:24 GMT

Get rid of all the jerks in Washington, DC! They are nothing more than a bunch of self-serving SOB's. Both parties are out for themselves and don't care about us. All they do is point fingers at one another all while the country is going down the toilet. The Democrats are just as guilty for the housing crisis as the Republicans. The Democrats are the ones who complained that the tradidtional loan process was too difficult and thus low income people couldn't qualify for loans. Those low income people weren't getting loans for a good reason! Both parties stink! They are not there to represent us. Example: Most Americans are against illegal immigration, but what do our "leaders" do? They cater to illegal immigrants! Both Obama and McCain are in bed with La Raza! Middle Class America, let's take our country back!!!!!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Kelly Y., Haslet, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 17:08:03 GMT

Does anybody else have a problem with projects our government does that costs millions or billions? Where do they think the money keeps coming from if we are borrowing $600 million to $1 trillion from China and Japan?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Charles Nunnelly,, Oro Valley, AZ spatsy@comcast.neet — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 17:32:05 GMT

I take this article as it was written, one of the few examples we are informed about. One of the BEST reporters in VietNam could not gain access to Iraq and in his words, "the army prevented it".
This article is to point out what is endemic in Iraq initiated by an invasion ordered by only one man, "to protect Amereica" by creating a fear we have never known before, even when Kennedy would not listen to the "generals" and would not invade Cuba, he used othere means.
Pros and cons on this one issue, while stimulating the emotions, will lose sight of the higher concepts involved and the only thing seperating us from the apes is the ability to take a lot of information and structure a higher level concept in our minds. Of course we have done some good things there, but only after we killed thousands of men, women and children and destroyed the resources they had. The issue is not the rebuilding, it is the prior destruction and I am sure the lady in Kuwait has a good life as they construct fabulous buildings using our money gained from oil. We are paying for it all and the issue is when it all began. A good news article begins in the first 20 words with, "Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How."
I appreciate this article for its information I did not have but it is only the beginning of developing the higher concepts which is a failure of the schools if it does not occur but it will seldom occur in high sschool or in the current words of popular music or TV commercials.
Anyone can have an opinion, it requires no great information or thought process. But when Beliefs are creted simply from Opinions we will not reach the Truth".
I say again, this story is about an ending: if we find the beginning it will be a great surprise but we were warned by James Maadison,"Men are not angels" and again by Eisehhower, 'Beware the military/industrial complex".
My two bits would throw in morales,ethicsk, character, greed, ego and a ration of other characteristics spread out over this nation like China's smog.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

OLT, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 17:49:01 GMT

Let's leave McCain and Obama out of part of the equation although both of them had votes and I assume that McCain voted to fund this mess and Obama said no. The blame of all this - wars in other countries, increase in gas prices, a prison built in another country they did not ask for or want (whose plan was this), and the blatant disregard for anything or anyone but themselves and their cronies in terms of making money can all be traced right back to their President (I sure as hell did not vote for him). I said 4 years ago if they put him back in office, take the whipping he is going to dole out and Bush, this time, did not disappoint me. However, for the upcoming election, we got a man (McCain) who thinks we can win a war (not to belittle why our sons and daughters are over there) but exactly why are we there and what exactly are we winning vs Obama who has clearly stated that he has against all of this. If you decide to vote for McCain in this election, as I said before take your whupping like a man and don't b***ch about it later because U had a choice and decided to change from a dumb*ss to an old nitwit

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

vietnamvet69 — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:24:13 GMT

Why does this not surprise me at all!! Here we spent millions of dollars on a project that was not wanted or asked for by Iraq, but we built it anyway, and Iraq's infrastructure still needs to be repaired or rebuilt, such as running water, electricity, sewer, and such. But remember, we won the war!! Now if we someone will please go in and prosecute the idiot(s) who authorized and managed this construction boondoggle.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Victor in Brooklyn, Ny — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:30:40 GMT

Just another case of the boys in Washington allowing any looter, I mean "contractor", to embezzle tax-payer money. The term "Poor Government Oversight" is redundent. I expect corruption in my government, but the worst is an administration that refuses to acknowledge the continually damaging consequences of their actions. A war started under false pretenses, a Mission Unaccomplished, an invisible war against a ruthless enemy, Billions spent and more to come, our economy, our reputation, our citizens and our brothers and sisters in arms paying the price. I love my country, but this war wasn't worth it.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Addison, IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:36:37 GMT

I don't know about the rest of you, but if people are shooting at me on a daily basis, I'd get the heck out of Dodge. I can't fault the various contractors for doing just that.

Of course, knowing that it's an active war-zone, I probably wouldn't have accepted the job there in the first place.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Steve, Little River SC — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:20:02 GMT

Based on Mr Chathaway's standards we lost World War 2

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Teresa, Alabama — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:24:50 GMT

Please!!! After all that's happened with this war, gas prices, continued mis-management of US dollars everywhere, do we really think our government or president cares??????????? NO! There's no accountability and they are all too busy passing the buck and pointing the finger at each other. WHAT'S NEXT for this great nation that is being run into the ground?????

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Dennis Shields Southern Illinois — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:41:52 GMT

If the truth was ever known or reported to the public, misapropriation of funds like this prison is whats wrong with our political government at its norm, seems like these things are happening all the time.
There is one main issue that I want everyone to think about, fuel prices started going up appx. 6 mo. before we invaded Afganistand and has gone up and down ever since we been in this conflict in the Middle East, I personally feel and believe that we are financing this conflict through the price of what we are paying at the pump for fuel, if they raise the price of fuel by 2 cents or five cents how much money is being collected to support the conflict after they sell Billions of gallons of fuel on a daily basis, as the cost of the war got more expensive so did the price of fuel over the last seven years, so as far that forty million dollars for a prison goes that money has already been spent and allocated through the American citizens and the fuel pumps, if you want to see the price of fuel go down, we as americans need to drastically stop buying fuel any way possible and also Carpool,Masstransit,Ridebikes,and if you have to drive get a moped or small motorcycle, you will pay for it in six months with the offset from buying fuel, but this needs to be done with a mass amount of people, we need to send a message over to the Middle East and tell them when the get hungry Eat Your Oil and as far as selling them grain I personally think we should sell it for $130.00 a bushel for any and all grain, with all the countries out there relying on the U.S.A. Crops to eat, we can do the same thing as they are with their oil !

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Juan, Alabama — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:48:24 GMT

What's disgusting about all of this is that "We the people" are making ourselves heard but no one is listening. 40 million dollars to an unwanted project is a slap in the face to all of our servicemen who have given their lives for this country.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Jack Harriman — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:49:31 GMT

Isn't politics wonderful.. Send more lawyers to DC, if it isn't screwed up enough. Put a half gallon of scotch in their hand first...

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Chris, Ny, Ny — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:57:33 GMT

Brenda, please take off the contractor spokesman hat before signing on. I am (as we all should be) outraged at the waste (and you know it exists if you are actually involved). Sadly this is exactly the kind of thing that always occurs when government is allowed to throw money around. The rub on your good news that is ‘not reported’ is; I do not care. The fact we are rebuilding a bombed out schools that we bombed does not warm my heart. It does not make me happy that we are paying to rebuild these buildings and they do absolutely NOTHING for us as American taxpayer’s ore even increase our security. So even if they do manage to complete some of these contracts and that news was reported I would find those stories annoying as well. I am sick and tired of hearing about 'success' in a venture that we should never even been involved with in the first place. To crow about the fact we have rebuilt schools and revitalized business in Iraq should mean nothing as we slide backward at home. It is especially dark as our businesses are slowly getting shipped overseas and schools struggle to teach for lack of funds and no government support. Perhaps to make things as shiny at home as in Iraq all we need to do it get Halliburton to build us some very expensive schools and unused prisons, it would give the news something ‘positive’ to report on.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Shane, Lincoln, NE — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:59:51 GMT

You want to see empty, unfinished, delapidated buildings? Wait till Obama pulls our troops out and then... oh wait, is he pulling our troops out? Was it 16 months? Or didn't he say he reserved the right to make a decision that was best for our troops security? Make sure we didn't have to go back in or something? And I'm not sure how sending our troops to Afghanistan is going to help the situation at home... isn't that the plan? I'm sure he'll figure it out. Although I am confused about how a surge in afganistan will help if the surge in Iraq didn't.... And isn't NATO in charge of Afganistan? Isn't Obama on the NATO congressional committee? I'm confused... can someone tell me what Obama's platform is? I like change, but Obama's plan is to take it out of my pockets.

Mark my words: the democratic party will last longer without BHO in the white house. At least your party leaders will live high on the hog with the money NBC and their ilk throw at them. They make money telling you what you want to hear! Where do I sign up!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

John Trotman, Roanoke, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:04:20 GMT

How very pathetic and sad for ALL who voted for the GWB! As we Democrats love to say, "be careful what you vote for republicans, YOU JUST MIGHT GET IT". Revenge is ALWAYS self defeating and distrustive. America wanted Pres. Clinton out of office so desparately they SHOT THEMSELVES in the foot TWICE!!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

bobdlwyn@msn.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:11:50 GMT

What we need is another "Boston Tea Party" and another 'REVOLUTION' and take back "Our Country". If this is not Taxation without representation, Ill kiss your @$$ in front of Wall Mart and give you 30 days to draw a crowd.Bob C. Bandy, N. Tazewell, Va.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

bobdlwyn@msn.com — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:18:23 GMT

If you 'have to write your representatives' to find out about this Farce, then they are probably in on the scam. It should be their job to inform their constituients when their money is being wasted. What a joke our governing body has turned into. I say,"SOMEBODY GET A ROPE". Bob C. Bandy N. Tazewell, Va.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bill Anderson, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:25:47 GMT

Investigate an even larger waste - the Theatre Internment Facility and Reconciliation Center at Ramadi. $60+M into an $80M project and we walked away from that one too.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Bev — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:32:42 GMT

I'm struggling with economic hardship and my government takes monies that could have been given to me and others in my condition (housing market failing; It could have been given to cover student loans. Its amazing that we have to pay out all this money to go to school and then after school can't find a job or have to settle for a "low" paying job when we've spent over thousands. This was truly a waste

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

L Smith, Incline Village, NV — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:34:14 GMT

What results do you expect from an illegitimate war? This war was built on lies and continues on lies. Nothing good and lasting can come from it. This is just another example of that.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Aaron, Mesa, Arizona — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:50:27 GMT

I'll tell you exactly how this happens; lack of real government oversight. We've been brainwashed over the last 30 years by the friedmanites that government is the problem and that the private sector can do everything better. Well here you go; Iraq was supposed to be the free market utopia that everyone dreamed of. Gee, you mean if I give Company XYZ money with no oversight there's the potential for corruption?? Oh, I know how we'll get them to be honest, we'll guarantee their profits regardless of what they spend and then grant them immunity from any potential prosecution if they're found to be operating incorrectly! What could possibly go wrong?!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Devron W. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:07:24 GMT

As the old saying goes"I love My Country, it's my Government i Fear! Stands True Today. Buy Land Abroad!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

F.A.Connelly Mobile, A. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 21:19:28 GMT

This Country the United States of America was formed with the "blood and lives of courageous citizens by something called the "American Revolution!" Citizens I am sure beyond any doubt that it is time for a "Second American Revolution!" It can and must start with the courage to VOTE the vast majority of those holding political office at this time. Look at the voting records of the Congress and you will see most votes against anything that helps the "working class!" When you vote against a minimum wage increase 9 years in a row, you must truly hate the working class while one of the largest economic booms in American history takes place! The list of injustices are many, the law passed are an insult to the working and middle class of America. When you have bills like the Medicine, the Energy, the Banking, and Free Trade passed you see this government is for the Rich, about the Rich, and there to enrich (no pun intended) the Rich and little else or really nothing else.
Ladies and gentlemen it is past time to hear a call to Arms and Action! While inflation is out of control and raises (compensation) for the working class are at an all time low and the President can't tell you enough how great the economy is you and I are just one "medical emergency" away from ending up in the grips of poverty, scraping, and begging for food and a place to live.
So look to CHANGE, vote for change, look to anything or anyone be they black or white, man or woman who still feels, who knows those sacred emotions and ideas "Honor, Equality, Liberty!" Yes, ideas and ideals that cared this great Nation out of the British Empire. So citizens the survival of the United States of America depends of You, your courage, and if you can look beyond the everyday emotions and go forth with the idea that today is the day "We the People" take back our country, Revolution, The Second American Revolution!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Rob D., Watertown, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 23:08:43 GMT

Iraq, the 52nd state...Where the Bush legacy will be lauded maybe in 100 years in the future...when we finally get them to convert to christianity, give up their culture in favor of our uneducated mishmash,add a couple hundreds of McDs, and be the shining beacon of Democracy in the Middle East...Our billions to waste while Haliburton flourishes in Dubai (where they don't have to pay taxes to the US even if they technically work for us), where the Republicans go to retire and live as kings...Don't worry people, this one time prison will become a paintball emporium or a cineplex in the next decade or so...just ask Sen. McCain...we won!!!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Richard-Orcas Island, WA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 06:56:26 GMT

We have a president who can't even tell the truth about where he was born;'I was born in Texas'. That's all we seem to hear; so Hartford,CT, was,at one-time, as part of Houston?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Duncan , Kailua Hawaii — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:43:10 GMT

George Bush threw money at Iraq and covered up mismanagement, fraud, theft, awarding illegal contracts, bribes, etc.

We should stop spending money in Iraq and spend it in the U S. Our bridiges, roads, levees and other infastructure are falling apart and unsafe and we continue to waste money and lives there.

Barak Obama wants to get out in 16 months. I think we should do if much faster. We can save alot of money and lives.

The $40 Million lost on the prision is just a drop in the bucket compared to how much money we actually lost.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

David Schulze, San Antonio, Texas — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:43:44 GMT

Since none of us are in Iraq, we really do not know if this building is in Iraq or not. It could be in any number of countries. I guess we could try to check out a satellite image.
But any way the reason the reporter does not give all the details like who the contractors were and so on is because his story probably has a lot of exaggeration in it.
But despite all the troubles we have in the United States, I am proud to be an American and I live in the best country in the world. There is not such thing as a perfect country with the perfect government. All governments waste money. Many kill people who do not agree with them. All have their own set of problems.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Unhappy Citizen, Tuscon, AZ — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:29:10 GMT

Take a look at the Basra Children's Cancer Hospital. $150 million spent on a super cancer hospital that the Iraqis didn't want; they said they needed dozens of small clinincs and basic medicines, not a cancer hospital. But one very powerful person wnated it, the sainted Laura Bush. She had the project managed directly by the NSC, very unusual for a reconstruction project. The hospital was to be co-funded by Project HOPE, a charity run by a Bush family friend form Texas, John P. Howe despite their spectacular failure to come thru on similar promises in Afghanistan. It was initially to be constructed by Bechtel, but they were dropped for failure to perform.

So a pet project of the First Lady sucks up $150m, promotes two incompetent organizations, commandeers time of the NSC, overrides the basic needs of the host country and endangers the lives of alll the contractors working on it as well as the thousands of Iraqis left without basic care, and NO ONE CARES.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

MAMAT PC, AL — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:22:57 GMT

I too agree that there is MUCH WASTED MONEY in government but it happens at all levels and has happened throughout the history of our nation. It mainly started around the early part of the 19th century. What is and has been wasted is NOT new! As for wanting more money in your own pockets start managing your own money appropriately. It starts at home before you can point fingers at others who deal with much higher numbers in the checkbook. Do your own checkbook first and see if comparatively you don't also waste money. You want better this that and the other WELL, most of us have the right to HOME EDUCATE, HOME HEALTH, HOME GROW, HOME RAISE, HOME PRODUCE, HOME BUILD AND MORE!!!!! DO YOU DO IT OR DO YOU JUST COMPLAIN WHEN YOU PUT IT INTO THE HANDS OF OTHERS AND THEY DON'T DO IT YOUR WAY????? This is your life take it back if that's what you want but stop crying about others living it for you!!!!!! You CHOOSE the way you use your own time AND MONEY in your own way!!!! Don't get caught WASTING IT, LIKE THE GOVERNMENT IS or what is going to be said about you?? No matter what politicians do or say that we don't agree with, I believe we live in the best nation on earth. NO, things are not perfect but PLEASE show me a government that pleased ALL THE PEOPLE ALL THE TIME.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Michael ONeil, Southern, Calif — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:00:15 GMT

I like the Library Idea, Obama will get it all straightened out, oh, and left, right? How can you tell the difference?

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Anonymous, Texas, USA — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:26:36 GMT

I was there for about 20 months and working right there in the Green Zone at the PCO office for the reconstruction. Believe me, there are many more projects like this one. I have never seen such a wasteful spending of money in all of my 25+ years of engineering and construction experience. It was an absolute cluster about 75% of the time.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Blair, Mexico, MO — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 05:53:15 GMT

40 Million, nothing, considering the billions already unaccounted for through graft and corruption. This isn’t a war to fight terrorism, this is a war of greed.. While our Mothers, Fathers, Sons and Daughters sacrifice their lives for a lie, this slime lines their pockets.

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Karen , Nevada — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 03:14:04 GMT

The prison was built on Iraqi soil with American tax dollars and the Iraqi's did not want it. How arrogant! That is not our country, yet the grand G. W. does whatever he wants. It is so sad we went into that country for false reasons, no 9/11 terrorist was from Iraq. I support our troops ... to come home. Bless all the soldiers. Who cheated the country an lied G. W. !

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Susie,bedford,pa — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:40:25 GMT

I REALLY THINK THE PEOPLE OF THE USA ARE GETTING REALLY SICK AND TIRIED OF BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF.THERE ARE PEOPLE HERE THAT NEED FOOD,CLOTHES AND JOBS. HERE WE ARE FIGHTING A WAR WE SHOULDN'T BE AND SPENDING MILLIONS OF DOLLARS ON THINGS THAT AREN'T EVEN GETTING FINISH. IT HAS ALL BEEN A SCAM AGAINST US THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. WE ARE THE ONES THAT PAY TAXES,WE PAY FOR HIGH PRICES IN FUEL, HIGH PRICES IN HEALTH CARE,WE MAY NOT EVEN HAVE SOCIAL SECURITY BECAUSE FROM WHAT I SEE IT HAS BEEN DIPPED INTO. WHEN IS ALL THIS GOING TO END? THIS IS NOT A FREE AMERICA ANY MORE. WE DO NEED TO STAND TOGETHER ON THIS AND GET SOME OF THOSE SO CALLED POLITICIAN OUT! SOME AREN'T DOING THERE JOBS AND HAVE BEEN IN THERE FOR EVER.WE DO NEED TO STAND TOGETHER ON THIS!

The 'worst' reconstruction case in Iraq

Becky Flug, Antioch, IL — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:47:54 GMT

Why is it that everyone just complains about everyone else but no one actually does anything? All of you are only a small minority of the people in the USA, probably because most of us normally are working our buns off to make a few cents, or volunteering to help someone else out in worse shape. Who elects these people? Your same comments were written about the last president & the last president, etc. Talk about a wake up call! When we have "accepted" illegal behavior from ALL politicians all the way up to our past president & claim he is still honorable, what else do you expect? Who out there is willing to stick their neck out & actually do something about it? How many of you are "honorable" people? We cannot expect our politicians, contractors, military contractors & all the people that control the money and oil in this world to be just, honest and fair if we ourselves are not or we do not make them accountable. It does not work both ways. Thats why we are in the mess we are in.