Reply #13: Iraq pullout ballot vetoed

[PatSeg]

Source: Sacramento Bee

Governor rejects legislation calling for an advisory vote on withdrawal of U.S. troops.
By Kevin Yamamura - Bee Capitol Bureau

Last Updated 1:07 am PDT Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Story appeared in MAIN NEWS section, Page A1


Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed legislation late Tuesday to ask California voters in an advisory ballot measure if they want to withdraw United States troops from Iraq.

The Democratic-backed bill put the Republican governor in a political bind because a majority of California voters support a withdrawal of some or all troops, but Schwarzenegger has hedged his own answers on the issue and his Republican base opposes withdrawal from Iraq.

"The decision to engage in or withdraw troops from war is a federal issue, not a state issue," Schwarzenegger said in a statement. "Placing a non-binding resolution on Iraq on the (presidential primary) ballot, when it carries no weight or authority, would only further divide voters and shift attention from other critical issues that must be addressed."

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/111/story/374457.html