Kucinich Solicits Your Input on Reasoning for Iraq Withdrawal

[genius]

From his website:

http://www.kucinich.us/archive/report/display.php?r=36&d=2005-06-10+18%3A34%3A44

For the past month, Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) and I have been actively engaging several House Republicans in an effort to put together a bi-partisan coalition in support of a House Resolution to establish a date certain for the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. We have been involved in many long discussions reviewing a range of different proposals to effect a date by which our brave men and women would be brought home.

Yet, in our discussions with our Republican colleagues (and some Democrats), we have encountered several obstacles to moving forward.

1. A feeling that setting a date for withdrawal would encourage insurgents to settle down, wait until the US leaves, and then once again escalate action.

2. A concern that we have lost so many troops already that it would dishonor the memory of those who gave their lives if the US were to withdraw.

3. A belief that we are winning the war and now is not the time to talk about leaving.

How would you respond to these concerns? Go to this section of our discussion forum and let me know. I will share your responses with my colleagues.

Meanwhile, the idea of establishing a date certain for withdrawal from Iraq continues to be my focus in all discussions. I believe that once a date certain is set it carries with it a series of metrics, planning the exit, step by step, with all thinking organized toward the end of US troops' presence. Any plan which keeps the withdrawal date open-ended ensures an unending participation in Iraq.

Additionally, the way we approach our colleagues for help with our proposed resolution is important. We must avoid finger-pointing, blaming or recriminations. If we approach our efforts with an open heart and a willingness to look to the future, to create a future of peace, we can get the support we need.

National polls indicate Americans are tiring of the US presence in Iraq. More and more Americans want our troops to come home. However, in order for popular dissent to be effectively registered, a legislative vehicle must be created which will enable people everywhere to organize in support of Congress taking action.

We are continuing with our efforts and I will keep you posted. I want to read your thoughtful comments on the concerns about withdrawal listed above. Please click here to tell me how you would respond.

http://www.kucinich.us/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=2959


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If you are not on Dennis's email list, it's worth getting on it. He sends the best notifications of what is happening in Congress. That's how I got the links to his request for feedback.

[eridani]

1. Check the Kucinich website front page

Someone has collected and compiled various comments from people who posted on the forum.