Political Quotes

“I first want to recognize Congressman Ike Skelton, Chairman of the Armed Services Committee. I know how tirelessly he's worked to put this authorization bill together; and more than that, I know that no one in this House is a more dedicated advocate for our men and women in uniform. This bill passed out of committee unanimously, and I expect it to pass the full House overwhelmingly, as well. That's because it's a bill that begins to repair our military while putting the needs of our troops first, a bill that responds to the Armed Forces' immense challenges while keeping them on the cutting edge. Let me touch on a few of its key provisions. First, it authorizes $70 billion for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the war on terrorism. No doubt, an overwhelming majority of the American public would agree that our mission in Iraq has been marred by gross errors of judgment from our highest-ranking civilian officials, unending bloodshed, and a chronic lack of political progress. But at the same time, 150,000 American troops are still on the ground in the midst of that violence, they have done everything our Nation has asked of them, and I believe they must have the resources they need to defend themselves and try to stabilize Iraq. This bill recognizes that reality, and it includes funds to keep our troops safer under fire: funds for Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, up-armored Humvees, and personal body armor.”