Barack Obama said today he is open to "refine" his policies on the pace of an Iraq withdrawal based on information obtained with a planned visit later this summer.

“I’ve always said that the pace of withdrawal would be dictated by the safety and security of our troops and the need to maintain stability. That assessment has not changed,” he said. “And when I go to Iraq and have a chance to talk to some of the commanders on the ground, I’m sure I’ll have more information and will continue to refine my policies.”

“My job is to make sure that the strategic issues that we face, not just in Iraq, but in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan,” Mr. Obama said, “that those are all taken into account and dealt with in a way that enhances America’s national security interests over the long term.” (Link)

This being the gotcha season, one can count on folks from both sides to blast away at Obama, calling this a flip flop.  The hardcore anti-war contingent will accuse Obama of betraying his pledge to end the war (which he hasn't) and the hardcore right will blather away, swinging at every pitch hoping for a hit and calling this more proof Obama is changing his position. 

Obama's position is pragmatic and reality based.  Things change, right?  After seven years of a president who rarely, if ever changes plans, regardless of the circumstances, don't we want a president who modifies strategies based on the evolving conditions?  That just seems like common sense.

UPDATE:  Lately, Republicans have been calling for Obama to demonstrate some judgment on Iraq, given the security gains in the last several months.  A couple examples:

Representative Eric Cantor: "... Claire McCaskill responded emphatically, no, that he would not change course. I just believe that that raises serious questions as to the sensibility of that position given what's going on in Iraq right now, what's going on, on the ground."
McCain Spokesman Brian Rogers: "I guess the question is, if indeed he's going to go to Iraq and nothing that he sees will change or impact his decision-making on this, then why is he going? If it's just to check a box politically, then it represents the kind of cynical politics that the American people are pretty sick and tired off."

I guess I was wrong.  We should expect Rep. Cantor and Mr. Rogers will be praising Barack Obama for the wisdom to be flexible on Iraq, right?