John Thune: “Mr. Speaker, today Congress faces a momentous decision. We have had a spirited and vigorous debate about an issue of the…”

“Mr. Speaker, today Congress faces a momentous decision. We have had a spirited and vigorous debate about an issue of the utmost importance to this institution, to our government, and to our Nation. In the end, each of us must decide for our constituents and for ourselves whether or not to support authorizing President Bush to use force against Iraq. President Bush has called for an end to the international appeasement of Saddam Hussein. He has challenged the world to face up to its responsibilities and stop this evil man with his evil designs. Clearly, Mr. Speaker, we would all prefer that diplomacy could solve this problem. At the same time, we must understand that diplomacy has not worked with Iraq. We have been patient over this last decade, yet Iraq continues to defy the world community. Saddam has had his opportunity. The United States must now determine for itself how we should protect our Nation and our citizens. It is we, Members of Congress, the President, and the American people who should determine the fate of our Nation. Members of Congress have the difficult decision of determining whether or not the Nation should go to war. As a Member of Congress, I accept my responsibilities to weigh the evidence and to vote yea or nay, knowing full well what the consequences may be.”