Burgess Owens: “I thank the Speaker for recognizing me at the time shortly after my colleague Lynn Woolsey has spoken, because I rise to…”

“I thank the Speaker for recognizing me at the time shortly after my colleague Lynn Woolsey has spoken, because I rise to salute Lynn Woolsey as a great point of inspiration to her colleagues and for all Americans who are fighting to end the deadly, wasteful war in Iraq. I rise at this particular time because yesterday was Primary Day in California, and Congresswoman Woolsey had a challenge. I do not think that challenge was unrelated to her position on the war in Iraq. I think the challenge was a frontal attack on the majority of Americans who now disapprove of this administration's actions in Iraq. I think that the candidacy of the opposition was a not-very-subtle attempt to intimidate the leading spokesperson of the peace movement. I think it was a blatant effort to send a message. Congresswoman Woolsey is supported, fortunately, by the constituents in her district. Everybody knows that. Congresswoman Woolsey has been here for 14 years. She has a great record in areas ranging from child care to policies related to the war in Iraq. I want to congratulate her on a stunning, decisive victory. There was never any doubt of her winning, but she swept the field, I think with almost a two-to-one vote. The voters sent a message to all those who would challenge her and try to silence her that they care about what is happening in the world, they care about what is happening in Iraq.…”