Yes, I think the surge is working in bringing down violence and the Iraqi government's starting to move. So what? Let McCain claim he started it. Then McCain has no excuse NOT to begin withdrawing.

The issue is still when to withdraw. Obama needs to take it past this 'is the surge working' trap.

For the same reason the surge is working, Obama will begin withdrawing after Jan. 20th. Petraeus knows how to deliver. He reads the situation, too.