Bill Clinton: “I share my colleague's bewilderment. It does appear to me that the offsets are certainly adequate for the money we…”

“I share my colleague's bewilderment. It does appear to me that the offsets are certainly adequate for the money we believe should go into school construction. The Senator's reference to Iraq raises an additional question. I, too, am aware of the statement by the administration, by Mr. Bremer and others that we--the American taxpayers--were committed to rebuilding schools, hospitals, health clinics, roads, and powerplants. I don't think one would argue with that. It is our responsibility. Once we make the decision to pursue military action and change the regime, we inherit those responsibilities. But not only does it seem fair and equitable to do the same for our own citizenry--particularly our students in rural areas and in underserved urban areas which both of us represent in our respective States--I would note a cautionary comment: that if we expect to have the broad population of this country support the long-term commitment we have taken upon ourselves, which is costing at least $1 billion a week--and we know the President is going to come and ask for between $60 billion and $70 billion more to support both the military mission and the reconstruction costs of Iraq--I think if we are serious about sustaining public support for what is a costly endeavor in terms of life and, much more important than money, the soldiers we are losing, the casualties, the injuries that are being incurred, it is important we support things here in our own country.”