Political Quotes

“there is no doubt that the underlying bill is worthy of support. However, the language contained within, which prohibits funds from being utilized for Kosovo operations next year, will destroy the faith in the peace accords that were just yesterday agreed to. Section 1006, as drafted by the Republican majority, will prohibit any funding authorized under this act from being used for the current NATO operations in Kosovo. While almost impossible to enforce and monitor, this section has a demoralizing effect upon the morale and welfare of our troops engaged in the NATO operations. This section is completely unnecessary and sends the wrong message to our allies and troops. I applaud Congressman Skelton's efforts to strike this language. The insidious language built into this bill is there for the purpose to embarrass the President and his efforts to broker peace in the Balkans. As this operation was conducted on the basis of coalition forces, it is absolutely essential that American forces participate without any hesitation. This spending "road block" may prevent military peace keeping planners and commanders from placing necessary equipment in place to do the job and do it right.”