Yesterday, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice issued the threat of stepping up international sanctions against Sudan if they did not stop military operations in and around Darfur and unconditionally accept the UN’s peacekeeping forces. Her words were prickly, “If the Sudanese government chooses confrontation — if it continues waging war against its own citizens, challenging the African Union, undermining its peacekeeping force, and threatening the international community — then the regime in Khartoum will be held responsible, and it alone will bear the consequences.”

Zoinks! That’s some tough talk. But it’s hard to deny that her comments a overly disproportionate. I mean, really, what’s wrong with a Sudan? I don’t have one — I drive one of those enviro-slut SUVs — but that doesn’t mean they’re wrong. In fact, they’re probably the wisest, most practical automotive choice for the average American. The four doors provide easy access for all passengers. Ample trunk space. Reasonable fuel economy. (Except for that ridiculous Dodge Charger. Wow, what were they thinking? Who needs a Hemi to haul the kids to soccer practice? [Well, except Badway, that is.])

Anyway, why is she being so mean?