On the recordOctober 15, 2003
for far too long, Syria has been an exceedingly irresponsible partner in the troubled Middle East. By our actions over the last two years, the United States has already sent a strong message to Syria and has gotten some cooperation in anti-terrorist efforts. The current downward spiral of violence is not working for the Palestinians and is not making Israel more secure. We should use our resources to get the parties to resume steps to reduce pressures, tensions and bloodshed. Since I agree with the indictments of Syrian behavior contained in H.R. 1828 I would not be comfortable voting ``no.'' Yet, I agree with most independent commentators that passage at this time would not be helpful for our efforts to advance the peace. I choose to vote ``present.``
Source
govinfo.gov
