Bush's speech may be the most important of his presidency

By Ron Hutcheson and Margaret Talev
McClatchy Newspapers

WASHINGTON - President Bush is about to take a gamble that could make or break his presidency and his place in history.

In a speech scheduled for Wednesday night, he'll try to convince a war-weary nation to commit more troops and money to a struggle in Iraq that's already cost more than 3,000 American lives and at least $300 billion.

His nationally televised speech, and the reaction to it, will determine the next step in Iraq, test his relations with the new Democratic-led Congress and set the tone for his final two years in office. Some analysts say it could increase pressure for withdrawal if the solutions Bush offers don't bring quick results.

White House aides acknowledge that the president faces a skeptical audience when he goes before television cameras at 9 p.m..