Maxine Waters: “I came today to the floor to shame the Republicans and the President for politicizing this tragic war in Iraq. God bless…”

“I came today to the floor to shame the Republicans and the President for politicizing this tragic war in Iraq. God bless our soldiers. They do not deserve to be made pawns in political gamesmanship. There are many Members who love and support our soldiers but refuse to be blackmailed into supporting this preemptive strike doctrine of this administration and to be used by this President. Just as President Bush is attempting to use the New York 9/11 scene as a backdrop in his political advertisement, this resolution is being used to paint the picture that this President is a tough leader, fighting terrorism and winning. Mr. Speaker, this President is not winning. Our country and the world is not more secure. Tragically, over 564 soldiers have died since the war began last year, and thousands more have been injured. The administration has spent $157 billion so far in this war, and even the allies who have supported him are being retaliated against.”