Hilda L. Solis: “there is no matter that comes before this Congress that is more serious than whether or not our Nation should enter into…”

“there is no matter that comes before this Congress that is more serious than whether or not our Nation should enter into war. The implications of such a decision are so profound and will have worldwide impact. It could jeopardize U.S. relations with countries around the world. It would escalate the vulnerability of our Nation to a biological and chemical attack. And, of course, its most painful and lasting impact would be on the many American families who watch their sons and daughters go to war only to never see them again and maybe even return with lifetime illnesses. This is not a decision that I take lightly. I recognize the gravity of it. And this is why I remain concerned about the timing of this resolution of the President's effort to send troops into Iraq. I do not doubt that Saddam Hussein is a menace to the United States and to the world and even to his own people. I echo concerns that we must ensure greater security for our people here at home and abroad. But I cannot support authorizing our President to send troops in harm's way without the support of our allies and concrete compelling evidence of imminent or nuclear threats that demand military action. We must eliminate weapons of mass destruction and the threat they pose to our Nation and others around the world. But unilateral military action against Iraq or any other foreign nation is not the most effective short-term strategy to accomplish this goal.”