This just in: Kerry's statement on the vote

Statement by John Kerry on the Kerry-Feingold-Boxer-Leahy Amendment



Below is a statement from John Kerry on his amendment to redeploy U.S. combat forces from Iraq by July 1, 2007, with a rapid reaction force staged elsewhere in the Middle East. Troops to conduct targeted counter-terrorism operations, those essential to finish training Iraqi security forces, and those needed to protect U.S. personnel and facilities would remain in Iraq.



13 Senators voted for the amendment today.



“This vote today was a dramatic step forward in forcing a Congress that shares responsibility for getting us into Iraq to take responsibility for finally getting the policy right in Iraq.



“It was a vote to do what’s right for our troops, our country, and Iraq. Our numbers are growing and our ability to apply constant pressure to change course is stronger than it was just a week ago.



“Setting a deadline to redeploy U.S. troops from Iraq is necessary for success in Iraq and victory in the war on terror. Iraqi politicians have proven they only respond to deadlines - a deadline to transfer authority, deadlines to hold two elections and a referendum, and a deadline to form a government. Now we need another deadline to get Iraq up on its own two feet. Our troops have done their part, it’s time for the politicians in Iraq and the United States to do their job.



“Half the names on the Vietnam Wall are there because old men in Washington were too proud to admit a mistake, so they kept sending young men to stay a course they knew was not working. ‘Stay the course’ is not a strategy for victory in Iraq and the War on Terror. This administration is wrong. It is time to get Iraq right.”



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Thank you Senator Kerry and the 12 other courageous Senators!

beginning of the debate.

a "bold" amendment on Iraq. I really think in this case, doing a little e-mailing helped. I know I contacted everyone on this list two times. No saying I am taking credit when it is obvious that Kerry's passion and honesty is what brought more on board, but I don't think it hurt none.

And even more disappointed that Levin/Reed's amendement was so overwhelmingly defeated.

What is wrong with these people???

"Washington is broken". :(

:cry:

and get the message out that the liars on the media and the Republicans WANT you to think there's no better way.

I'm very disappointed in the dems who didn't even support the democratic bill although it does make them appear to be less partison.

if this vote had been taken during a time the Dems had a majority in the Senate. Would all those Dems still have been afraid to vote for an end date? I wonder how much conviction they have v.s. political fear.

We now know which of the Dem Senators are our "winter soldiers"--those 13 who voted for Kerry's amendment. Iraq is my #1 issue, and I know now which of my two senators are lilly-livered on it (Kohl). I am now debating whether to actually vote for him this fall, much less do any campaign work for him!

edit: Every Senator who voted for this amendment is from a blue state.

because this vote makes me more enthusiatic in doing campaign work for Menendez. I was impressed with Menendez before, but am totally impressed now - his speech yesterday was excellent.

Especially for a Senate newbie. JK complimented him too.

I'm sure Kohl will win re-election; he doesn't even have an opponent yet (except for a Libertarian party guy). But if these types want grassroots support, actual campaign help, they had better start listening.