Rep. Scott Demands Thoughtful Analysis of Redeployment and Safety of Our Troops

(Washington D.C.) - Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott, (D-VA-3), tonight opposed a Republican attempt to bulldoze any meaningful discussion of American redeployment from Iraq.

Representative John P. Murtha, (D-PA-12), is a decorated Vietnam combat veteran and retired Marine colonel with 37 years of military service who received the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. Rep. Murtha presented a thoughtful proposal to Congress for disengagement in Iraq. The Murtha resolution called for redeployment of American forces in Iraq at the earliest practicable date while leaving a quick-reaction force in the region, along with diplomatic efforts to ensure security and stability in Iraq.

At the eleventh hour, the Republican majority presented a resolution of their own. The so-called rewrite called for immediate redeployment of all U.S. forces in Iraq, with no findings or thoughtful attempt to assist the country that we have occupied for four years at the unilateral decision of President George W. Bush.

"Our current position in Iraq is a mess and any strategy for redeployment will have problems," said Rep. Scott. "However, a strategy that is thoughtful and responsible deserves serious debate. The Hunter resolution and the manner in which it was brought to the floor is an insult to the thoughtful analysis of Representative Murtha and should not be dignified by anything other than a ‘NO’ vote."

"Of utmost importance in any strategy is the safety and security of our troops," Rep. Scott remarked. "We should also attempt to leave Iraq in a better place politically and diplomatically than when we arrived."

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