The allies conceded they were bombing bridges in Baghdad and other cities that were heavily used by civilians.

Even his allies concede that it will be difficult to make the necessary changes without alienating the state's Democratic power brokers.

Iraq says the spill resulted from allied bombing, but the allies concede only that their attacks may have caused other small spills.

Mr. Rowland's allies concede his many shifts on issues, but some even point to it as a strength.

But even his allies concede that his way of dealing with racial problems and poverty is not today's way.

But even his allies concede that the new climate puts him in a difficult bind.

Mr. Silver's allies concede that the speaker is not all that open or even friendly.

But his allies concede that he has at times been ineffectual in battles over public opinion.

Many Republican leaders and their allies conceded that they had overreached and only reluctantly voted for the more targeted measure.

Some black allies of Mr. Menendez's concede that the picture is mixed.