Kirk Watson: “We need to declare victory with the Zarqawi killing, and this is a time to also declare that the Iraqi government has…”

“We need to declare victory with the Zarqawi killing, and this is a time to also declare that the Iraqi government has completed the formation of its cabinet and we can start withdrawing our troops. Now, all Americans are disgusted by what they see in Washington and they are looking for real leadership on the important issues of the day. First we could announce there are victories and we can start withdrawing our troops. But, unfortunately, Washington Republicans prefer to waste time on partisan politics, instead of focusing on priorities such as affordable health care, energy costs, the economy, the rising cost of staying in Iraq and the deficit. This week, the Senate spent 3 days debating a gay marriage amendment that everyone knew was going nowhere. In order to pass out of the Senate, the amendment needed 67 votes, and they couldn't even get a majority. The issue should be dead for the year, but now we hear the House leadership plans to bring it up later this summer. Mr. Speaker, let us give ourselves credit for what we have done in Iraq and let us focus on these issues and let us start withdrawing our troops. ____________________”