On the recordOctober 4, 2002
Mr. President, I rise to address the issue of importance of the day-- I think it is important to all of us and to our country--the issue of taking military action against Iraq. As Members of Congress, the most important vote that we cast is one that will place American troops in harm's way. The issue of war and peace is a burden of responsibility that lies heavy upon me, as well as each and every one of my esteemed colleagues. This is a vote of conscience, and also a vote of historic consequence because what we debate and decide here will not only significantly affect this great Nation but will immediately influence global events for years to come. No matter how difficult the decision may be, it is one that each of us must make for the sake of our country. We have an obligation and duty to carefully weigh the demands and the consequences of a preemptive attack. Before we engage in war, we must understand the results of war are irrevocable, and peaceful solutions should always be our first choice.
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