John Drake: “I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Iraqi people for their bravery, their courage, and their…”

“I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Iraqi people for their bravery, their courage, and their sacrifice along the road to self-determination and sovereignty. As I contemplate the recent progress in Iraq, I am reminded of the fact that it was 13 years from the time we declared our independence until we elected our first president. In Iraq, it has been a mere 13 months since Saddam's capture. In America, it took 132 years for women to have the right to vote, but in Iraq women voted in their very first democratic election. This election is only the beginning of democracy in Iraq. As their newly elected leaders draft a constitution this year, America's commitment to Iraq's security is critical. We must ensure that democracy and freedom take root and begin to thrive in the hearts and the lives of the Iraqi people. I also believe as more nations in the Middle East move towards freedom and democracy, it will provide for a more secure and peaceful world.”