Rep. Salazar Supports War Spending Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3) released the following statement today supporting the war spending bill that is scheduled to be voted on the House floor on Friday.

“I support the brave men and women who are serving our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan.  We must ensure they have what they need while serving in these dangerous and troubled areas.

“However, the policies and strategies pursued by this administration have not worked.  We cannot stay the course of a failed policy.  We need a new direction.

“This bill addresses these concerns.  It provides critical funding for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.  It also calls for a phased redeployment of our troops from Iraq following benchmarks set by the President.  The Iraqis must begin to assume greater responsibility for their own security and their future.  We cannot do for them what they ultimately must do for themselves.

“Finally, the bill recognizes that care must be provided for our wounded soldiers and veterans.  Additional funding is provided for military and veterans health care.  We must take care of those who have taken care of us.”