Sullivan Reaction to Bush Iraq Speech

Sullivan Reaction to Bush Iraq Speech

Today, Congressman John Sullivan released the following statement in reaction to President Bush's speech on Iraq:

"The status quo in Iraq is unacceptable. It is high time for the Iraqi government to take responsibility for their own country. I am supportive of President Bush's request for more troops because of his assurances tonight that they will be there to serve a specific mission: to assist the Iraqi Security Forces in securing Baghdad and ending sectarian violence plaguing the country. This must work because it may be President Bush's last policy decision to positively impact the outcome of the war.

"It is time for the Iraqi's to step forward, end the sectarian violence and build a responsible government. Iraqi Prime Minister al-Maliki has promised the American people that Iraqi troops will be the ones knocking down doors, arresting insurgents, and patrolling the streets, with U.S. troops in a supporting role.

"The plan that the president has put forth will be criticized and that is healthy. However, those who put forth criticism also have the responsibility to have an alternative plan for success.

"The fact that al-Qaeda is embedded in the al-Anbar Province in Iraq is a stark reminder of al-Qaeda's resolve against the United States. The Global War on Terror cannot be won if we fail in Iraq. We must succeed."

http://sullivan.house.gov/press06/1.11.07.shtml