-- Randy’s Roundup --

A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer

August 16, 2010

Drawdown in Iraq

On August 31, the U.S. mission in Iraq will officially transition from a combat role to an advisory and assistance role for the Iraqi government and its security forces. In parts of Iraq, our troops have already begun performing many of these roles.

To be certain, the United States still has a significant diplomatic role to play in Iraq. There is still much to be done to ensure that a stable government continues to develop. We have invested many precious lives and a great deal of money into this nation, and we must maintain an active role in helping the Iraqi government build, foster, and sustain institutions that advance national unity within the country.

Even though our mission in Iraq is scheduled to change at the end of the month, nearly 50,000 American service personnel will remain there. While our men and women in uniform maintain a presence in Iraq, we must make certain that they have the equipment and funding needed to safely accomplish their mission. President Obama has announced that all troops will leave Iraq by December 31, 2011. While there is a date-certain withdrawal, we must be sure to act responsibly in response to actions on the ground and be certain not to jeopardize any of our successes to date.  As we take on this new role and begin the drawdown, I hope that the Administration will work with the Iraqi government to forge a lasting strategic partnership between our two countries. Our service members have sacrificed everything for our safety and freedoms. I look forward to welcoming them home.  

Mark Your Calendar: Brownfield and Graham Town Hall Meetings This Week

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19
10:30AM
Brownfield
Brownfield Middle School Auditorium  
1001 East Broadway

FRIDAY, AUGUST 20
2:00PM
Graham
American Legion Building
609 Elm Street

For a complete list of Town Hall dates, please click here.    

‘Taxpayer Hero’ Award

Last week I was named a "Taxpayer Hero" by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste (CCAGW) for the first session of the 111th Congress. I am extremely honored to receive this award on behalf of the people of the 19th Congressional District and taxpayers across the nation.

At a time when our economy is struggling to recover, tax hikes and reckless federal spending are not the answer.  My top priorities in Congress are working to prevent job-killing tax increases and promoting good government policy that spurs economic growth, strengthens our ability to create new jobs and brings serious fiscal responsibility back to Washington. We have to take action now to stop accumulating these dangerous deficits that add to our debt. Spending and borrowing away the future of our children and grandchildren is not an option. I promise to you that I will continue to be a responsible steward of your tax dollars and stand up for the interests of the American taxpayers.

Question of the Week

Do you think Iraq is prepared for the U.S. transition set to begin on August 31?

Please visit my website to submit your answer to this week’s question.

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As always, when events unfold in Washington, I will be sure to update you. In the meantime, do not hesitate to visit my website or call my office toll free district wide at (888) 763-1611 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-4005.