Mission In Iraq

From the beginning of the debate on the threat posed by Iraq through current reconstruction and security efforts, I have worked to ensure our goals are sound and that we are doing all we can to protect our troops and succeed in our mission. Now that we are in Iraq, we must do everything we can to ensure Iraq has a stable government and viable infrastructure. This includes the timely training of Iraqi security forces and moving forward with national elections so the Iraqis themselves can take control of their own destiny and shape their own future.

Engaging the International Community
Cooperation and engagement with the international community, especially in the Arab world, are critical for success in Iraq and in the war against terrorism. Through letters, speeches, and meetings with Administration officials, I have continually urged the President to aggressively engage the international community to broaden support in securing and rebuilding Iraq. While I applaud the President's reversal to allow the United Nations to play more of a role in formulating the new Iraqi government, it is clear we can and must do more. Actions by the Administration from the lead-up to war through controversial contract awards have served to discourage broad international involvement in Iraq. This has in turn left the vast majority of the military commitment in Iraq to American service personnel and almost the entire financial commitment on the shoulders of American taxpayers

Resources for our Troops
Three times in the last two years, I traveled to Iraq to visit our troops, meet with military and civilian officials and get a first-hand assessment of reconstruction activities. To ensure our troops are protected in Iraq, I have supported military spending bills because, due to poor planning for rebuilding Iraq, our troops have struggled with insufficient body armor and a lack of properly armored vehicles. I believe it is critical that our forces on the ground have all the resources and tools necessary to perform their mission safely, and I will remain active in holding the Administration accountable for the use of these funds.

For more information on my positions and activities regarding Iraq, please take a look at copies of my speeches on the floor of the House of Representatives and letters I have sent to Administration officials.

Resources for military families and those who want to support the troops can be found at my Troop Information Center.

I hope you find this information helpful. If you should have further comments or questions, please contact me.