The New York Times:

G.O.P. Support for Iraq Policy Erodes Further

Support among Republicans for President Bush’s Iraq policy eroded further on Thursday as another senior lawmaker, Senator Pete V. Domenici of New Mexico, broke with the White House just as Congressional Democrats prepared to renew their challenge to the war.

“We cannot continue asking our troops to sacrifice indefinitely while the Iraqi government is not making measurable progress,” said Mr. Domenici, a six-term senator who has been a steadfast supporter of the president.

The Washington Post:

Key G.O.P. Senator Breaks With Bush

White House efforts to keep congressional Republicans united over the Iraq war suffered another major defection yesterday as Sen. Pete V. Domenici (N.M.) broke with President Bush and called for an immediate change in U.S. strategy that could end combat operations by spring.

The six-term lawmaker, party loyalist and former staunch war supporter represents one of the most significant GOP losses to date. Speaking to reporters at a news conference in Albuquerque, Domenici said he began to question his stance on Iraq late last month, after several conversations with the family members of dead soldiers from his home state, and as it became clear that Iraqi leaders are making little progress toward national reconciliation.

Dallas Morning News:

Potholes a bottomless pit

Commuters weary of the rain over the past month will have a different nightmare when the sun finally decides to reappear. Not only will potholes proliferate because of the rain, but crews that typically repave roads, mow medians and build new lanes haven’t been able to work for the same reason. And the forecast calls for a chance of more rain at least through next week.

So crews will be playing catch-up later this summer, road and street commissioners across North Texas warn.