Throughout the campaign season, Arizona Senator John McCain has been criticized for his support of the Iraq war - particularly by his Democratic opponents, who have attacked him for once saying troops could remain in Iraq for 100 years.

In a speech in Columbus, Ohio, today, McCain gave his most detailed vision yet for the future of Iraq – a vision that includes removing most troops by 2013. By then, McCain said, “Iraq is a functioning democracy, although still suffering from the lingering effects of decades of tyranny and centuries of sectarian tension. Violence still occurs, but it is spasmodic and much reduced.” He said that a small number of noncombat troops would remain in the country to provide support as needed.

McCain said that he would “focus all the powers of the office; every skill and strength I possess,” to make his vision a reality.

McCain’s opponents’ visions are not that drastically different – both Clinton and Obama have pledged to call for withdrawal of troops soon after assuminge the presidency. For more on the candidates’ positions on Iraq, see Candidates on the Issues.