Today is a new beginning for the people of free Iraq. The central authority in Baghdad has collapsed. Saddam Hussein's regime has lost control. But we know that there will be hard days ahead, days that will test our leadership, and test our willingness to engage with the rest of the world. In the coming months and years, America faces the enormous challenge of helping the Iraqi people rebuild their lives in peace and prosperity. This challenge presents an extraordinary opportunity for the United States as well. If we do this right, we have a chance to ensure that the United States occupies a place of respect and admiration in the world. We must take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen relationships with our core allies, to revitalize the United Nations, and to demonstrate American leadership through respectful engagement with the rest of the world. Today, in Baghdad and throughout Iraq, America's military forces are still in harm's way, and our thoughts and prayers are with them. Over the past 3 weeks, I have visited with some of our troops and their families in North Carolina at Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune, and with the National Guard. These young men and women inspire us all. They are performing brilliantly, and they will bring us to a great military victory. I support our troops, and I support the cause for which they are fighting.
Editor's note · Context
Addressing the situation in Iraq following the collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime.
Share
More from John Bel Edwards
I have an amendment at the desk. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will designate the amendment. The text of the amendment is as follows: Page 9, after line 5, insert the following: SEC. 7. FEDERAL USE IT OR LOSE IT LEASES ACT. (a) Reporting of…
Every year since 1996, Congress has failed to pass our annual spending bills on time. Every year since 1996, despite work still left to be done, August rolls around and Congress goes home, kicking the can down the road and leaving funding…
We witnessed this week a remarkable baseball contest. In the Congressional Baseball Game, the Republicans defeated the Democrats 31-10, but, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and recognize some real baseball talent. I rise today to…





