Civil War in Iraq
That Was Then, But This Is Now.
The War in Iraq was a mistake and had I been in Congress I would not have voted for it. That position, however, is not particularly helpful or relevant in deciding how best to proceed now. The question now is how do we get out of Iraq in a way that does not adversely impact our foreign policy interests and does not leave Iraq, the region and the world in a more precarious position than before we went to war.
I have read the bi-partisan Iraq Study Group Report and agree with its recommendations. Although I support setting appropriate benchmarks for progress, I do not believe that setting a specific timetable for withdrawal facilitates our goal of creating stability in Iraq. Doing so sends the wrong message to our troops, our enemies and, perhaps most importantly, to the other nations from whom we need assistance to stabilize Iraq.
To get out, and we must get out as soon as possible, we must embrace the Iraq Study Group's recommendations to engage in an all-out diplomatic offensive within Iraq, the Middle East and the world to adopt a plan to stabilize Iraq and confront destabilizing forces. We must use carrots and sticks and meet with friends and foes alike to transform the Iraq situation from a purely American issue to a regional and international issue.
Regardless of the merits of our decision to invade Iraq or the ongoing debate in Congress on how we get out, we must support and fund our troops and stop using their safety and security as a political football in Washington.
As a prosecutor I work every day with brave men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line for our safety. I support equipping officers with body armor, effective weaponry, reliable communications and appropriate benefits. Congress should do the same for our soldiers on the front lines in Iraq. If elected to Congress, the men and women of our Armed Forces, National Guard and Reserves will have no greater ally in Washington when it comes to making sure the Government keeps its promises and provides them with the proper tools to accomplish their mission and return home safely.
