Bill Delahunt: “And, Mr. Speaker, the best evidence of that are the recent attacks both in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, one of our erstwhile…”

“And, Mr. Speaker, the best evidence of that are the recent attacks both in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, one of our erstwhile allies in the region, who has been supportive of the United States in the war on terror, who has been supportive of our natural ally in the State of Israel. And what we are beginning to see is the spread of terrorism far from just Iraq, but everywhere around the world. However, others, again from both parties, have articulated a criticism. Chuck Hagel, another veteran, someone who has experienced combat in Vietnam, a highly regarded, well-respected Senator, made this statement back in September, again on a national TV program. In response to the question, ``Did the administration miscalculate the difficulty of this war?,'' this is what Senator Hagel said: ``Yes, they did miscalculate it. I think they did a miserable job of planning for a post-Saddam Iraq. They treated most in the Congress like a nuisance when we asked questions.'' Well, I think it is incumbent upon the President of the United States to respond to the questions that the people's representatives in both branches of Congress pose, because it is the people of the United States that are losing their sons and daughters in Iraq. To date we have already appropriated in excess of $165 billion that will be paid for by future generations. And what do we see? We see a deteriorating situation.”