Steven Holt: “I am troubled and disappointed that this particular resolution concerning Iraq is before the House today. It is…”

“I am troubled and disappointed that this particular resolution concerning Iraq is before the House today. It is intentionally divisive, and unnecessarily so. Yesterday, the Iraqi people engaged in the most basic civic activity of a true democracy; they voted. I congratulate the millions of Iraqi citizens who bravely went to the polls to elect their parliament. I am greatly encouraged by this significant accomplishment, and I am proud to strongly support the Iraqi people as they struggle to build their own democracy. I also strongly support our troops on the ground in Iraq. I recognize and honor their service and tremendous sacrifice. I also honor the sacrifices that have been made by their family members over the past 4 years. They have served bravely and skillfully, even when they have not been given the equipment and strategic support they require. As they come home, their Government must live up to its promise and provide the long term support they will need. Every member of the House would support a resolution celebrating and honoring the Iraqi people and successful elections that occurred yesterday. Every member of the House would also support a resolution honoring the sacrifice and commitment of our service members who are serving in Iraq. The ranking minority member of the International Relations Committee introduced a resolution that would have done those things.…”