Just got an email from my rep re:Iraq

[giant_robot]

I just got this email from Rep. Kanjorski. Sorry for the drive-by post, but I just wanted to share this with you before I leave for the evening.

Dear Mr. robot:

Thank you for informing me of your thoughts about Iraq. I appreciated hearing from you on this issue of significant importance and share your concerns.

To date, the Iraq war has come at a terrible cost to the United States. More than 2,400 service-members have been killed in action and greater than 17,000 have been wounded. The longer that U.S. forces remain in Iraq, the higher these statistics will rise. In addition, of the more than 135,000 troops currently serving in Iraq, many have completed their second or even third tour of duty. Multiple tours of duty for National Guard and Reserve members have created hardships for many families and small businesses in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The war in Iraq has also diverted much needed resources away from fighting the war on terrorism and eradicating al-Qaeda. The United States has spent more than $250 billion dollars to date, with billions more to come. Additionally, the focus on Iraq and away from the real threat of al-Qaeda has, according to recent news reports, resulted in an increasing number of deadly attacks launched by Taliban and al-Qaeda forces in and around Afghanistan.

In light of these facts, the disproved claims of weapons of mass destruction, discredited reports of Iraq's ties to al-Qaeda that were originally used to justify the invasion of Iraq, and the ongoing and increasing sectarian violence, many individuals like you have called for the withdrawal of American troops from Iraq. My friend and colleague, Congressman Jack Murtha of Pennsylvania, recently introduced legislation to achieve this end.

The Murtha resolution, as you probably know, would terminate the deployment of U.S. forces in Iraq and the forces involved would be redeployed at the earliest practicable date. In addition, this measure would deploy a quick-reaction U.S. force and an over-the-horizon presence of U.S. Marines in the region.

The decision to go to war in Iraq, in my opinion, will go down in history as a great mistake. After careful consideration, I also decided to cosponsor the Murtha resolution. An expeditious, rapid reduction in the number of American military personnel serving in Iraq would remove the source of antagonism for the majority of the insurgents and compel the Iraqis to take control of their own affairs.

As the 109th Congress continues its work, I will continue to monitor closely the latest developments in Iraq and work to bring American military personnel home as quickly as possible. During any forthcoming legislative debates on these matters, you can also rest assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind. While we develop an effective strategy for exiting Iraq, we must also continue to provide for the protection of the brave American military men and women while they are in harm's way.

In closing, thank you again for sharing your thoughts on these important matters. Please feel free to continue to write, call, or e-mail me about any issue that concerns you.

Sincerely,

Paul E. Kanjorski
Member of Congress

Thats one more on board with Murtha!

[FloridaPat]

1. Nice to read a letter from a congress person that can think. I never

got one like that from my congress people. Time to get them out of office.

[pberq]

2. Kick & Nominated !

[giant_robot]

3. Kick for the late-night crowd. n/t