Close Enough?

Looks like my prior estimate of 34k is closer to the mark than this week's announcements have thus far suggested: see here.  Given that the US, unlike France or Germany, does not have a process by which the legislature can impose a restrictive force cap (specific number of troops in theatre--which can be fudged anyway), any modest reinforcements would be unproblematic.  Indeed, it is even possible that Canada might chip in a few more token troops before the end of 2011 since the Canadian mandate focuses on time and not the size of the force.  Prime Minister Harper could toss in a few more troops and that might not be politically dangerous, although he might not since there are no domestic payoffs for following the US these days.