November 16, 2006
Statement on Iraq
Given the recent midterm election and the renewed focus on what the United States should do with Iraq, I feel it is important to state my position on the issue.
While I stand by my previously expressed position that invading Iraq was a bad idea, I do not support a unilateral withdraw of troops from Iraq. For better or worse the United States is responsible for the situation in Iraq. While it may be convenient to state that this is George W. Bush's folly, the United States as a country is responsible for the situation.
Just as a parent owes to a child a good start in life, the United States owes Iraqis a stable manageable start to their newfound country-hood without Saddam Hussein.
To withdraw our troops without stabilizing Iraq is morally reprehensible and is not a legacy any American should want for their country.
You mean like we did in Vietnam? I believe we bailed, and Saigon fell a very short time later to the North. There were plenty of people of Vietnamese effected by our withdrawal. It was very sad to read the accounts of it.
My belief is that we should do a troop reduction, or drawdown. I think also that we need to get with the Pres of Iraq and their governing body and let them know that if they don't start trying to end the civil warring, then we will leave them to fend for themselves. No matter what you may hear, the Iraqi's don't want that. I also think we need to get Sadir with the program. He has become so powerful in Iraq, that it wouldn't hurt to try to work with him. At this point, try anything so we don't leave in disgrace, with Iraq in ruins.
Just my two cents.