President pounding the war drum

WASHINGTON - A resolute President Bush braced Americans for war in his State of the Union Address last night, vowing to do "whatever it takes" to stop Saddam Hussein from unleashing doomsday weapons on the world.
The president said the United States has strong evidence that Saddam, whom he stressed has direct links to al Qaeda terrorists, is hiding his weapons of mass destruction. He said Secretary of State Colin Powell will present the evidence to the United Nations next Wednesday - but he left no doubt that he intends to act.
"The course of this nation does not depend on the decision of others. Whatever action is required, whenever action is necessary, I will defend the freedom and security of the American people," he said.
"We will consult, but let there be no misunderstanding: If Saddam Hussein does not fully disarm, for the safety of our people and for the peace of the world, we will lead a coalition to disarm him."
Even many Democrats who have been critical of Bush - like...