Bachmann sees 'astounding' success in Iraq

Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann will spend Christmas Eve night in an old palace of Saddam Hussein's, with body armor and a helmet close by.

But she says in her second trip to Iraq she's seen "astounding" progress, particularly in Ramadi and Anbar province.

Bachmann told reporters on Christmas Eve that she received a two hour briefing from General David Petraeus, in charge of US forces in Baghdad.

Bachmann says the city of Ramadi, once a stronghold of Al Qaida forces, is now a place where commerce has returned and children play in the streets.

"General Petraeus says there is a zero presence of Al Qaida in Ramadi," Bachmann said.

"We are not dancing in the end zone," Bachmann quoted Petraeus as saying, "but we are cautiously optimistic about progress in Iraq."

Bachmann says in addition to Ramadi and Anbar, there is progress toward peace in Baghdad. She says during her last trip in July, there were several terrorist attacks in the city. But so far this time, there have been none, although the Congressional delegation is required to wear body armor and helmets during the helicopter ride into the green zone.

The Republican Congresswoman is in the Middle East with five other members of Congress from both parties. They've been briefed by top diplomats and generals on the status of the war and the fledgling Iraqi government.

Bachmann says U.S. military officials told her troop drawdowns will occur as conditions improve. She says she doesn't want to see arbitrary withdrawal deadlines.

Bachmann will spend the night in a former palace of Saddam Hussein, and visit Minnesota troops in Christmas Day.

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