In other news from Washington, a measure recognizing the Armenian genocide appears headed for failure. The House Foreign Affairs Committee approved the resolution last week. But dozens of lawmakers have withdrawn support following an outcry by the Turkish government.

Rep. John Murtha (D-PA): “I must have had 25, 30 members, Democrats, come to me yesterday and say — you know, very agitated about this coming to the floor right now. They have gotten the message. So I would say, if it were to run today, it wouldn’t pass.”

The Bush administration has lobbied against the bill, saying it would harm relations with an important Mideast ally.