Robert Wexler: “Mr. Speaker, now is the moment which Congress must act to defend freedom, confront a brutal dictator and rid the world…”

“Mr. Speaker, now is the moment which Congress must act to defend freedom, confront a brutal dictator and rid the world of his increasingly devastating threat. Our decision will not be easy or without consequence. It will pose severe implications for the stability of the world, the security of the Middle East and, ultimately, the future of the United States. It will alter the course of history, change the lives of millions, and resonate in the collective memory of America for generations to come. It is in this regard that I have contemplated this issue with great deliberation, taking into account the concerns of my constituents in South Florida, many of whom fought in World War II and Korea, who have, time and again, expressed their profound reservation concerning the President's rush to engage in military action in Iraq. I will vote for this resolution because it has become painstakingly clear that Saddam Hussein represents the epicenter of hostility and conflict throughout the entire Middle East. His very presence threatens to undermine America's war against terror and compromise all prospects for regional security, stability, and peace. There is no doubt in my mind it is long past time for Saddam to go.”