Iraq Strategy More Of The Same
DeGette Reaffirms Commitment to Ending War in Iraq
WASHINGTON – With the Iraq war in its sixth year, Chief Deputy WhipDiana DeGette (D-CO) today released the following statement on GeneralDavid Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker testimony before Congress.Petraeus and Crocker will testify before the House of Representativestomorrow.
"The recent flare-up in violence in Iraq is further evidence thatPresident Bush's ‘surge' has failed. The Iraqi government has not takenthe necessary steps toward political reconciliation that will helpsecure their own country. Now, General Petraeus and Ambassador Crockerask for more money, more troops, and more time. Their ‘no-end-in-sight'strategy is unacceptable.
"The Bush Administration's war in Iraq has not only failed, but isfatally misguided. With over 4,000 U.S. casualties and tens ofthousands injured, the Bush Administration's war has cost us billionsof dollars, pushing our nation deeper into debt, and hurt our fragileeconomy.
"I voted against giving the President his original authorization to goto war in 2002. I have consistently opposed this war. And, I willcontinue to uphold my commitment opposing any legislation that does notcontain firm withdrawal timelines and political benchmarks. It is timeto bring a responsible end to this irresponsible war."