For Immediate Release:

Monday, October 9, 2006

(Washington D.C.) - U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) today released the following statement on reports that North Korea has conducted its first nuclear test:

“The news yesterday that North Korea decided to move forward with testing a nuclear weapon is deeply troubling and a grave concern for our country. It threatens the stability and security of Asia and the world, and is of special concern to all of us in Washington state. We cannot accept a nuclear North Korea. The international community needs to come together now and take swift action to keep the situation from escalating. The Bush Administration needs to devote its full energy to pursuing diplomatic efforts and strong sanctions.”