Tom Lantos: “Robust debate is the hallmark of this body and this afternoon we had a sampling of it for which we are all pleased. The…”

“Robust debate is the hallmark of this body and this afternoon we had a sampling of it for which we are all pleased. The difficulty in dealing with the issues that we face in this world is that we do not confront elegant alternatives but exasperating realities. It is in that context that I wish to quote from the person who will be the nominee of the Democratic Party at the upcoming convention on his views of this resolution and of this undertaking. I am quoting from Senator Kerry: ``While we may have differed on how we went to war, Americans of all political persuasions are united in our determination to succeed. The extremists attacking our forces should know that they will not succeed in dividing America, or in sapping American resolve, or in forcing the premature withdrawal of U.S. troops. Our country is committed to help the Iraqis build a stable, peaceful and pluralistic society. No matter who is elected President in November, we will persevere in that mission.'' Mr. Speaker, these are difficult days for our country, but we stand united in our commitment to our troops and in our commitment to our values. I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution.”