A Responsible Resolution to the War in Iraq

The American people were deceived into supporting a war without a just cause, and, to add insult to injury, the war has been seriously mismanaged. The war in Iraq began with the promise of increased security in the face of weapons of mass destruction. To date, the war has cost over 2,400 American lives and billions of dollars while no weapons of mass destruction have been found and instability is rampant. This outcome was predictable. The Bush administration relied on poor information, acted unilaterally, and ignored predictions of a protracted conflict. I support Rep. John Murtha’s plan to immediately begin troop withdrawal consistent with the safety of U.S. forces, and to pursue security and stability in Iraq through diplomacy. But we must do more than that.

Meet the needs of our troops. While the Republicans in Congress were willing to send our troops into a prolonged conflict, they remain unwilling to fully fund their needs, such as armor and weapons, leaving our soldiers vulnerable. Moreover, many members of our National Guard have not been paid. We owe these brave soldiers and their families a great debt and they families must be made financially secure.

Fulfill our obligations to the men and women who have served. Our veterans deserve physical and mental care for the extreme hardship of a prolonged and mismanaged war. Moreover, I believe we should provide enhanced job training to ensure these workers are able to re-enter the workforce. I support the creation of a GI Bill for the 21st Century, where all veterans are guaranteed full-tuition at a state college upon their return from active duty.

Accept responsibility. While remaining in Iraq is a not a reasonable option, we should accept responsibility for our role, help Iraq rebuild, and offer aid the entire region. To that end, I support the creation of a Marshall Plan for the Middle East. We must recognize that our hubris in invading Iraq has heightened the conditions for terrorist recruitment. By supporting the efforts to rebuild the region, we will help end the poverty and desperation upon which anti-American sentiments and terrorists thrive.

Rebuild our relationship with the world. The Bush Administration, supported by Sue Kelly and her Republican colleagues in Congress, alienated our allies while pursuing the largely unilateral invasion of Iraq. I will support efforts to engage our allies in the rebuilding effort to enhance our credibility internationally as well as ensure increased stability in the Middle East.