Voting in Iraq

More than 11 million of Iraq's 15 million registered voters went to the polls last week to vote in a parliamentary election remarkable for its peacefulness. In contrast to the violence that early this year accompanied voting on the interim government that has been running Iraq, the contest for these 275 seats was conducted in relative calm.

Also unlike the last election, Sunni Arabs turned out in large numbers. A leading Sunni politician said his party would welcome being part of a coalition government.

The final outcome of the vote isn't expected for another week.

Though violence resumed Sunday with the relaxation of the strict security in place for the election, the turnout is a good omen for President Bush's quest to create a free and democratic Iraq.