FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2003

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-225-0100

Pelosi Statement on Passage of Iraq Supplemental

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement opposing the Iraq Supplemental conference report, which passed late tonight by a vote of 298 to 121.

"As Members of Congress we recognize that we have no greater responsibility than that charged to us in the Preamble of the Constitution -- to 'provide for the common defense.' We all take that responsibility seriously. Of course, both sides of aisle will do whatever is necessary to support the troops.

"This conference report gives another $87 billion to an Administration that has not answered questions about its failed post war Iraq policy. The $63 billion for Iraq we already approved has not been adequately accounted for. And it is clear that this $87 billion is merely an installment. The Administration has already said it will ask for more.

"Two weeks ago, Democrats tried to offer a substitute that did more for our troops and was fiscally responsible. But Democrats were not allowed to offer it. Last week, a bipartisan majority of the House and Senate sent a clear message that the bill should include a loan provision to lower the cost of reconstruction to American taxpayers. But last night, conferees chose to ignore the will of the people and both Houses of Congress by stripping the loan provision from the conference report, turning a deaf ear to what the American people want.

"And so tonight, we are asked to vote on a conference report that hands the President another blank check for post war Iraq. As long as the Republicans in Congress keep writing the President blank checks, the American people lose."

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi