SMITH OPPOSES FLAWED REPUBLICAN RESOLUTION
Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on a resolution, H.Res.571, introduced by the House Armed Services Committee Chairman, Representative Duncan Hunter (R-CA), calling for the immediate withdrawal of all U.S. military forces from Iraq. Adam opposed this measure, which was defeated 3-403, and released the following statement:
On Thursday, Congressman John Murtha spoke out on our nation's policy on Iraq. When it comes to defense policy, John Murtha is one of the most respected Members of Congress. He is a decorated Marine who served for 37 years and did three tours in Vietnam. Few in Congress have done more than John Murtha to improve our nation's security, provide protection and equipment for our troops and make our military the strongest in the world. I have the greatest respect for his expertise and his commitment to our troops.
I share many of Mr. Murtha's concerns for our service members and about the state of affairs in Iraq. But the resolution before the House yesterday was not John Murtha's proposal. It was a blatant political ploy that did a disservice not only to the House but to our troops serving in Iraq.
I rejected this cynical political stunt by voting against the Republican resolution. The entire exercise further undermined Congress' ability to have a serious debate on our nation's policy about Iraq. But I believe that the White House and this Republican Congress don't want to have a serious debate on Iraq policy. As such, they resort to political ploys such as this.
In approximately one week, I will take my second trip to Iraq, where I will meet with soldiers and military leaders on the ground. It is critical for me to gain this firsthand information in order to determine the best way forward. I hope that after my return Congress can engage in a real debate on Iraq.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment