Washington, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge issued the following statement in advance of the President’s address regarding Iraq:
The President will reportedly announce plans to send approximately 21,500 additional troops to Iraq.
“I strongly support our soldiers and their families who have done so much for America. Unfortunately, the President’s reported plan to send more troops to Iraq will likely be ineffectual and the decision appears to be based on more politically inspired denial. The gross mismanagement of the war is indefensible, and it is time for a new direction.
“The President should follow the recommendation of the bipartisan Iraq Study Group and lay out a long-term strategy to secure Iraq based on a region-wide approach, so that we can bring our troops home.
“I have serious concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed troop escalation in Iraq. Our military is already stretched thin and senior military leaders reportedly oppose a troop surge. Past troops increases have failed to end the violence in Iraq.
“Congress must fulfill its oversight duties to examine the Administration’s record on Iraq policy and thoroughly consider the President’s proposal as well as credible alternatives. The American people want a new direction in Iraq, not more of the same ‘stay the course’ political rhetoric.”