Feingold on Iraqi Vote

“With only three days remaining until the Iraqis return to the polls to elect their national parliament, President Bush missed a critical opportunity today to signal U.S. support for an autonomous, independent, and self-sustaining Iraqi government by making clear that the U.S. military mission in Iraq is not permanent. Unfortunately he also indicated that even after this week’s election, he will continue down the same “stay the course” path. This is no strategy for success."

"As Iraqis elect their national parliament, the current massive U.S. military presence, without a clear strategy and flexible timetable to finish the military mission in Iraq, will continue to fuel a growing insurgency and will ultimately prevent the very political and economic progress Iraqis need to develop a true democracy. A flexible timetable for withdrawal will also allow the U.S. government to refocus its efforts on making our country safe and combating global terrorist networks – the true threat facing our country today.” [Feingold]

These comments follow Bush's speech today on Iraq. He estimates that over 30,000 Iraqis have been killed since our invasion in 2003. That's a low estimate Mr. President.