Murtha: Republicans will soon jump ship on the war

Anti-war Congressman John Murtha predicts that after the Republicans picks their nominee, the party will suddenly do a reversal and take a different stance on the war:

“As soon as the primaries are over,you’ll see Republicans start jumping ship,” Murtha said in remarks atthe National Press Club.   

Murthaalso predicted that, despite the unpopularity of Congress, Democratswill make broad gains in next year’s election because voters are upsetwith the war.

On the Democrats' bid to gain US House seats, Murtha is optimistic -- maybe too optimistic:

“People arefrustrated, but you’re going to see a big Democratic increase,” he toldreporters after his speech. “I think we’ll pick up 40 [to] 50 seats.”

40 to 50 seats?  I am an optimist, but that is pushing it a bit.  That means Democrats would have to win 40 seats that they weren't even able to win in 2006.  I would be happy with 20 seats.  Of course though, it is good to aim high, and I like to see that.