Well, the referendum happened. If you want to read about it, or any other news from around here, check out the Spain Herald for a good solid right-wing anti-Socialist dose of information. I actually like this translating thing.

The Drudge Report has these excerpts from Bush's Brussels speech. Excellent. Just what the Europeans want to hear, with the added advantage that it's becoming more and more clear that Bush means what he says. Bush has been so rough on Europe in the past that this is a real olive branch, and even France is getting a chance to pick it up. Note that nobody's doing Zap any favors, though. Zap's honeymoon with the public isn't over yet; all the surveys I've seen show that the Socialists would win if an election were to be held now, though the PP would make a race of it. Zap's honeymoon with the non-El Pais media is about over, though, because it's also becoming more and more clear that Zap is a dope. And Spain is in the deep-freeze as long as Zap's PM.

"The alliance of Europe and North America is the main pillar of our security in a new century. Our robust trade is one of the engines of the world economy. Our example of economic and political freedom gives hope to millions who are weary of poverty and oppression. In all these ways, our strong friendship is essential to peace and prosperity across the globe - and no temporary debate, no passing disagreement of governments, no power on earth will ever divide us."

"Today, America and Europe face a moment of consequence and opportunity. Together we can once again set history on a hopeful course - away from poverty and despair, and toward development and the dignity of self-rule … away from resentment and violence, and toward justice and the peaceful settlement of differences. . . . As past debates fade, and great duties become clear, let us begin a new era of transatlantic unity. . . . "

"Our greatest opportunity, and our immediate goal, is peace in the Middle East. . . . "

"We seek peace between Israel and Palestine for its own sake. We also know that a free and peaceful Palestine can add to the momentum of reform throughout the broader Middle East. . . . "

"Lasting, successful reform in the broader Middle East will not be imposed from the outside; it must be chosen from within. . . ."

"Together, we must make clear to the Iraqi people that the world is also with them - because they have certainly shown their character to the world. . . ."

"All nations now have an interest in the success of a free and democratic Iraq, which will fight terror, be a beacon of freedom, and be a source of true stability in the region. . . . Now is the time for the established democracies to give tangible political, economic, and security assistance to the world's newest democracy. . . ."

"America supports Europe's democratic unity for the same reason we support the spread of democracy in the Middle East - because freedom leads to peace. And America supports a strong Europe because we need a strong partner in the hard work of advancing freedom in the world. . . ."

"The nations in our great alliance have many advantages and blessings. We also have a call beyond our comfort: we must raise our sights to the wider world. Our ideals and our interests lead in the same direction: By bringing progress and hope to nations in need, we can improve many lives, and lift up failing states, and remove the causes and sanctuaries of terror. . . ."

"Our alliance is determined to promote development, and integrate developing nations into the world economy. . . . "

"Our alliance is determined to encourage commerce among nations, because open markets create jobs, and lift incomes, and draw whole nations into an expanding circle of freedom and opportunity. . . ."

"Our alliance is determined to meet natural disaster, famine, and disease with swift and compassionate help. . . ."