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News from the Keweenaw Peninsula Posted and updated April 26, 2007 Press release © 2007 U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) and courtesy Alex Haurek, press secretary.

Stupak says Bush should sign Iraq Accountability bill

"The measure the House passed today supports our troops, honors our veterans and requires accountability from the Bush Administration and the Iraqi government," Stupak said. "The bill provides $4 billion more for our troops than the President requested and provides $1.8 billion more for veterans' neglected health needs. 

"Equally important, this legislation would make clear that the Iraqis should be responsible for the future and security of their country. The legislation includes the same benchmarks the President outlined in his January address, but also ensures they are enforceable.

"After four years, thousands of lives lost, tens of thousands of Americans wounded and billions of dollars spent, President Bush continues to ask for a blank check, an unending commitment in Iraq. We owe our brave servicemen and women in Iraq more than an open-ended commitment to war. We owe them a new direction in Iraq, not more of the same. 

"President Bush should sign this bill. If the President vetoes this funding, he will leave our troops waiting for resources and our veterans without the care they need, while America stays the course of this Administration's failed policy in Iraq.

"Our troops are waiting for this funding. Mr. President, sign this bill," Stupak stated.

During his address to fellow Congressmen in the House, Stupak said, "This war is a mistake, and what we need now is a president who has the courage to admit his mistake. We need a president who will bring peace and stability to Iraq through diplomacy rather than military force."*

According to an Associated Press article by Anne Flaherty published on Yahoo.com Wednesday night, "The $124.2 billion bill would fund the war, among other things, but demand troop withdrawals begin on Oct. 1 or sooner if the Iraqi government does not meet certain benchmarks. The bill sets a nonbinding goal of completing the troop pull out by April 1, 2008, allowing for forces conducting certain noncombat missions, such as attacking terrorist networks or training Iraqi forces, to remain."

The Senate is expected to take up and pass the legislation Thursday, sending the measure to the President's desk.

Editor's Notes: *Stupak's address from the floor of the House can be seen and heard in a video now available on his Web site. Constituents can contact Congressman Stupak and his staff by calling toll-free 1-800-950-7371 or by emailing him at stupak@mail.house.gov. His Congressional Aide Amy Wisti may be reached in Houghton from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at (906) 482-1371. For Rep. Stupak's views on current issues, visit his Web site.