President Bush and Democrats Spar on Iraq Troop Issue

Tens of thousands of Iraq war protesters are expected to take part in a rally in Washington Saturday to protest President Bush's strategy.

Rally organizers are calling on demonstrators to stay in Washington through Monday to pressure lawmakers face-to-face to pass legislation to end the war.

Some Hollywood movie stars plan to address the crowd.

President Bush had strong words Friday for members of Congress who oppose his new Iraq strategy, saying "I am the decision-maker" on sending more troops.

Mr. Bush said he worked closely with the U.S. military and his new defense secretary, Robert Gates, to come up with a plan that is likely to succeed.

Democratic Party lawmakers are preparing to start debate in the U.S. Senate next week on a nonbinding resolution stating that President Bush's proposed troop increase in Iraq is not in the national interest. - VOA News