WASHINGTON D.C. – Sen. John Kerry issued the following statement today after legislation setting a firm deadline for redeploying US troops out of Iraq failed in a 47-47 vote.

“Rather than change President Bush’s failed policy in Iraq, roadblock Republicans continued to side with George Bush and choose more of the same,” Kerry said. “This bill offered a new direction in Iraq, a policy worthy of our soldiers’ sacrifice, and pressure on Iraqi politicians to end their civil war. The Republicans instead chose loyalty to President Bush over our national security. I’ve been fighting for a deadline for redeployment for over a year. We’ve gained momentum and supporters and I intend to continue working with my colleagues on this issue until we force the Administration to come up with a new mission that can actually work.”

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