Dear proud patriot,
Earlier today the Senate cast votes on 3 separate amendments related to our continuing involvement in the civil war in Iraq. But only one of those amendments, the Feingold-Reid amendment, set a firm deadline for redeploying the bulk of our troops out of the civil war in Iraq by March 31, 2008.
I was proud to vote for this amendment, which was based on legislation that I have cosponsored. The American people want a new way forward in Iraq, and the only way to do this is to set a firm timetable for redeployment. Only then will the Iraqi government take responsibility for its own future.
Unfortunately, this amendment failed by a vote of 29-67. I am disappointed that the Senate ignored the overwhelming sentiment of the American people by voting to maintain the status quo.
But this is not the end. Americans — Iowans — want an end to our involvement in this civil war. They know that our brave soldiers have served honorably and have brilliantly completed their mission. They know — as the Iraq Study Group stated — the conflict in Iraq now requires a political solution.
While we didn't get what we wanted today, I want you to know I will continue to do everything in my power to change course in Iraq and bring our brave soldiers home. It's time to chart a new direction in Iraq, and I will continue my work in the Senate until that goal is achieved.
Sincerely,
Senator Tom Harkin
http://www.tomharkin.com:80/nl/IRAQMay162007.htm