Did Someone Say Withdrawal?

by Ari Berman

For the first time since the war in Iraq began twenty-six months ago, the House of Representatives debated the need
for US troops to exit Iraq. The modest amendment, introduced by Rep. Lynn Woolsey of California last Thursday
evening, called on President Bush to develop a plan for the withdrawal of US forces. With virtually no prior notice or
lobbying, 123 Democrats and 5 Republicans voted for Woolsey's amendment. But with no support from either the
Democratic or Republican leadership, and thus no chance of passing, no major US newspaper felt obligated to cover
the unprecedented proceedings.

Instead, the House added $49 billion more for the Iraqi occupation--on top of the $82 billion recently appropriated--as
part of the $491 billion 2006 National Defense Authorization Act. The massive defense bill establishes a new fleet of
nuclear submarines, provides millions for new aircrafts and ships, adds $100 million for a missile defense system
and expands research for bunker-busting bombs. All of this the House could easily support. But not a non-binding
call for a withdrawal plan.

"We have never voted one time together, not one time in the 11 years I have been here," conservative North Carolina
Republican Walter Jones said in reference to his support for Woolsey's amendment. "What I am saying here tonight
is we have a responsibility. We should not be into some endless, endless war in Iraq." Republicans Howard Coble,
John Duncan, Jim Leach and Ron Paul agreed.

"With more than $200 billion on the line," Woolsey asked, "Do the Members not think that the American people
deserve to know what the President plans to do in Iraq?"


http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0531-29.htm


interesting stats in the poll results in the next to last paragraph of article. I esp. find it interesting when looking at the opinion of the Bangeant piece posted earlier "last kick at liberal dogs" ...
dp

very good editorial.