In the past both Zack Space and Charlie Wilson have faced some backlash over their votes against pulling troops out of Iraq. Apparently they've gotten the message though because today they both voted for HR.2956, a bill calling for most US troops to be pulled out of Iraq no later than April 1, 2008. The bill passed with a tally of 223-201 but is expected to be vetoed.
In a press release Space had the following to say about his vote:
“Our soldiers have been extraordinary in their courage, valor, and sacrifice, and they have succeeded at every task asked of them. They are true heroes, men and women who have, unfailingly, answered every demand. I have supported them at every turn, and I continue to by demanding accountability and a change in the administration’s policy.
“No one is more concerned about the destabilization of a region that is already extremely volatile. And that’s why I’ve given the President and his staff every chance to show me that we should be fighting this war here and now. In spite of my patience, I’ve been disappointed by our President and his absolute lack of leadership. He has promised that the Iraqi troops would step up to govern Iraq, but he has been unable to bring this about. As a result, the Iraqis continue to lean on our American troops while a religious civil war burns around them.
“That’s why I’m ready to say enough is enough – it is time to redeploy our troops from Iraq so they come home and truly strengthen our security. I simply cannot defend a policy that is so expensive in terms of dollars and in life and limb. It would be wrong, morally and militarily, to continue a war our President cannot plausibly defend.
“I have always been honest and candid with my constituents, and I realize that many of them may not agree with my decision, but I cannot, in good conscience, ask another Ohio family to endure the pain and agony of the loss of a family member for a cause that is growing more deadly, and less productive, every day.
“Today should mark the beginning of an effort to properly reorder our priorities. We need to redouble our efforts against the real threat of terrorism that is occurring all around the globe. And we need to make sure that for the first time in years, the needs of our communities and families here at home are again being met.”
While Charlie Wilson made the following remarks on the House floor during the 4 hours the bill was debated:
"This is the time to set a new course. Setting a date certain gives Iraqis the incentive to actually work on things; to meet some benchmarks.
"Our military men and women are among our most precious resources. They are performing admirably and with courage in a situation that they never should have been asked to do. They're doing their job. Now we must do ours - we must bring them home.
"On a recent trip to Walter Reed to visit a seriously wounded Marine I saw again the damage this war's done; not just to that young man, but to his family. They've all put jobs and lives on hold to care for him. His courage and conviction are not in question.
"That Marine would go back to Iraq if we asked him to. We must not ask. How much more blood must be shed? How many more families must we shatter? How many more billions must we spend? Enough is enough".
You can find the full vote tally here.
