I got a response from Sen. Lugar re: Iraq.

[Kid_A]

A couple weeks ago I e-mailed him to let him know how much I appreciated the fact that my senator was willing to criticize the leaders of his own party and stand up for what's right.

Here's his response:

Dear Mr. XXXXXXX:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the American presence in Iraq. I share your concern about the bloodshed and instability that is occurring there.

I have expressed my concern with the pace of spending on reconstruction efforts in Iraq. While it is crucial to ensure that we expand Iraqi security forces and improve their capabilities, we must not overlook the vital importance of funding reconstruction projects to the best of our abilities. In a recent hearing entitled, "Accelerating U.S. Assistance to Iraq," I said: "Few signs of stability are more convincing than successful reconstruction projects that boost the economy, repair infrastructure, or restore municipal services."

I was pleased that the United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to approve a United States resolution on the transfer of power to the Iraqi people. As we pursue independence and security in Iraq, the deeds we perform must be consistent with our words about freedom, democracy, human rights and accountability. We must use every tool at our disposal to ensure that the transition to Iraqi sovereignty succeeds, and we should make every effort to accelerate stabilization and reconstruction in Iraq.

I will continue to press the Administration to provide clear details to the American public about our continuing involvement in Iraq, and to ensure that we utilize all resources and funds available to stabilize the country and prepare it for democratic governance.

Thank you, again, for contacting me.

Sincerely,



Richard G. Lugar
United States Senator

*******************

Encouraging, yes?

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

1. Wow , very encouraging . Respect indeed.

[Kanary]

2. Usually reply letters are just bland, form letters.

This one is probably also a form letter, but it actually *SAYS* something. :)

I still don't trust the RW, but I appreciate you posting this. It's a look to the other side that we need to see.

Kanary

[Kid_A]

3. That's exactly what I thought. Not all Republicans are greedy war-mongers.

Some of them, like Richard Lugar and John McCain, put loyalty to their constituents ahead of loyalty to their party. I'm sure both Lugar and McCain both have some votes on their record that are more tradtionally conservative, but on BIG issues like this one they really take the time needed to see the entire picture.

[Crunchy Frog]

4. He's just about the only Republican senator

that I have any respect for. I have some roots in Indiana, and have been familiar with him since I was a teenager (a long time ago). He has always seemed like a genuinely decent guy.

[RaleighNCDUer]

5. A good reminder that Republicans are not the enemy. They

are loyal citizens, just like us. Their pary, however, has been hijacked by the enemy and we should do everything we can to convince them of that fact.

America is of the people, by the people, for the people. Not corporations, not religious charlatans and con men, not neo-aristocrats.