Lynn C. Woolsey: “on May 1, 2003, under a banner displaying the words, ``Mission Accomplished,'' President George W. Bush stated, ``Major…”

“on May 1, 2003, under a banner displaying the words, ``Mission Accomplished,'' President George W. Bush stated, ``Major combat operations in Iraq have ended.'' In the summer of 2005, Vice President Cheney told Americans that the so-called insurgents of Iraq were in their last throes. Fast forward to the morning papers this week. The Washington Post, and I quote, ``Situation Called Dire in West Iraq; Anbar is Lost Politically, Marine Analyst Says.'' The San Francisco Chronicle, quote, ``Police Discover 65 Bodies Across Iraq.'' The New York Times, ``New Wave of Violence Flares Across Baghdad.'' The BBC, ``Iran Offers Iraq Full Support.'' On top of that, according to the Department of Defense, in September so far 23 of America's brave servicemembers died in this seemingly endless occupation. Throughout this occupation there have been 2,900 coalition deaths. Almost 2,700 of those are Americans. An average of 100 Iraqi civilians are dying each day. Mr. Speaker, it is time for a reality check. The so-called insurgents are not in their last throes. The mission is not accomplished, far from it. This administration, the President, the Vice President, Secretary Rumsfeld, and Secretary Rice, won't admit they have made a mistake. Instead of planning for withdrawal, which is supported, by the way, by the American people and the Iraqi public as well, this administration is wearing blinders and pressing on.…”