FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2007
Contact:  Joy Fox
(401) 732-9400 
 
Langevin Urges President to Heed to the American Public on Iraq

 
(Warwick, R.I.) Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) this evening will vote for H.R. 1591 - U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health and Iraq Accountability Act. Passage of this conference report will require the redeployment of U.S. combat forces out of Iraq no later than October 1, 2007, with a goal of completing redeployment within 180 days.

Langevin has also cosponsored legislation requires the redeployment of nearly all U.S. forces out of Iraq by December 31, 2007.

“I believe supporting this conference report reflects the will of the American people, who recognize that we cannot have an open-ended commitment in Iraq,” said Langevin who originally voted against going to war in October 2002. “It is my hope that the President will sign this measure into law, especially given the nation's demand for a change in policy in Iraq. Anything less from the President only further confirms how out of touch his approach is with the will of the American people.”

The U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health and Iraq Accountability Act provides:

  • Accountability to our soldiers who have been sent into battle without proper training or equipment or a clear mission
  • Accountability to our veterans who are not getting the best medical care when they come home
  • Accountability to our military, including the National Guard, that is being stretched to the limits by the Bush Administration’s policies
  • Accountability to the American people who demand a new direction in Iraq

    • This legislation will also appropriate $124.2 billion in emergency supplemental funds to cover costs relating to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the larger war on terrorism, the continued recovery from Hurricane Katrina and other programs.

    “Unlike the President’s plan, which promises more of the same failed policy, the Democratic approach will support the political process to end sectarian divisions in Iraq, help rebuild the economy and infrastructure, and promote maximum diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the violence,” continued Langevin. “This measure sends a clear signal to the President and the world that we do not intend to remain an occupying force in Iraq.”

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