Political Quotes

On the recordFebruary 4, 2004
I am sure the Senator has visited with his National Guard in Iowa as I have visited them in Illinois. They have been told just the opposite. The Guard and Reserve have been activated and told they will be gone for a year or 18 months in service to our country. It is clear that once there we are going to support them. We will give them what they need to come home safely with their mission accomplished. But we can't do it for nothing. My question to the Senator from Iowa is, Why would the President of the United States refuse to include in his budget one penny to wage this war in Iraq and this war in Afghanistan? What is the purpose behind shortchanging this budget and making it look cheaper than it actually is? I ask the Senator from Iowa if he has any opinion.
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

Questioning the President's budget regarding funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Share

More from Dick Durbin

Aug 15, 2026

Our state’s top-notch rail system keeps our economy moving while allowing Illinoisans to travel from Chicago to Carbondale.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 14, 2026

It’s great to be here at the EBC to celebrate the good, impactful work that is at the core of this center’s mission.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 17, 2026

A farmer in Nebraska expects to pay for his wife and himself $32,000 this year for health insurance premiums.

durbin.senate.gov
Aug 20, 2026

For all of these reasons, ATF should withdraw this rule.

durbin.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation