WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jon Porter (R-NV) issued the following statement on today’s elections in Iraq
 
“Freedom is taking hold in Iraq.  The mere fact that elections took place in Iraq for the first time in years, and that the elections were free and fair, signifies a steady progression toward democracy.  Just three months ago in October, free and fair elections took place in Afghanistan.  The voter turnout of 80 percent quieted the critics who assumed that democracy was not possible in that nation.
 
It is important to keep in perspective what this election represents.  Under the reign of Saddam Hussein, the Iraqi people were forced to live in terror.  Today, they will live a life of freedom under the rule of law and principles of democracy.
 
Having traveled to Iraq in June, I have seen the Iraqi government in transition and can attest to the fact that the Iraqis are determined to live in peace and freedom.  Iraqis are moving from an appointed government to an elected government.  Any new democracy suffers through growing pains, as did the first elections under the U.S. Constitution in 1788.
 
My thoughts remain with our brave men and women who are fighting to defend and protect our freedom, and to make the world a safer place.”

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