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HOYER: AMERICA WILL WIN IN IRAQ BY TAKING THE SMART, RIGHT COURSE NOT BY STAYING ON THE SAME, WRONG COURSE

WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today regarding the war in Iraq:

“I appreciate Iraqi Prime Minister Allawi’s visit to Congress today.  However it did not allay my serious concerns with President Bush’s failure to set us on a course to victory in Iraq.

 “Democrats, led by our presidential nominee John Kerry, are determined to win in Iraq and we are steadfast and unwavering in pursuit of that goal.  Those who claim the contrary are misinformed or not telling the truth.

“However, Democrats – just like the American people – do no have blinders on.  The violence in Iraq is increasing, ‘no-go’ zones full of insurgents have been established in many major cities, only 5% of U.S. reconstruction money has been spent, and the January elections that are essential to our success are dangerously close to not happening.

“President Bush and most Republicans either don’t understand or refuse to admit that simply staying the course is not enough to win.  Experienced and well-informed Republican leaders like Senators John McCain and Chuck Hagel are urging President Bush to reassess his strategy.

“We have to fight this war smarter, and that is what John Kerry would do as commander in chief.  America will win in Iraq by taking the smart, right course not by staying on the same, wrong course.  Resolution in defense of a failed policy is not a virtue, nor is it wise.”

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