The Honorable Tim Bishop

Statement on the vote for H.R. 861

June 16, 2006

Due to a previously scheduled medical procedure, I was not able to cast my vote on House Resolution 861, concerning our presence in Iraq.

Had I been present, I would have voted against this resolution as it equates the Global War on Terror with the War in Iraq, which is in fact a diversion from the Global War on Terror.  Our presence in Iraq has weakened our Armed Forces and reduced our ability to respond to more urgent threats.

Without exception, I have voted for every Iraq supplemental funding resolution, as I am determined to ensure that our troops in the field are properly equipped and protected.  This resolution, however, is not about supporting the troops; it is about attempting to score points for partisan political gain. 

I will not vote for a document that says we should simply stay the course in Iraq.  Contrary to the misguided assertions of this resolution, redeploying U.S. troops from Iraq as soon as practicable is in fact in our national interest, and 2006 should be a period of significant transition toward full Iraqi sovereignty, as stated in last year’s defense authorization law.

Regrettably, this resolution reaffirms the Administration’s flawed, stay-the-course policy and conduct of the war, neither of which has ever measured up to the valor and professionalism of the brave service men and women of our Armed Forces.  Our troops continue to make America very proud while serving in harm’s way in defense of our liberty.  They deserve better than a cynical attempt at partisan exploitation.

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