On the surge in Iraq: time to hold Dave Reichert's feet to the fire.

[pnwmom]

Reichert narrowly squeezed out Darcy Burner on his "independent" platform. Now it's time for him to prove he's not under Bush's thumb. So far, he's not doing the job. We need to tell him that his constituents oppose the war. We don't want him to be "watchful" and to "hope." We want him to vote against the surge.

Here's his mealy-mouthed statement. He criticizes others for rushing to judgment ( either for or against the plan). Personally, he plans just to wait for the "results." What the hell does that mean? Is he going to vote for or against the surge? He doesn't say.

http://www.house.gov/reichert/press06/1.10.07.2.shtml

Washington, DC – Rep. Dave Reichert (WA-08) issued the following statement after President Bush requested additional funds for an increased military presence in Iraq tonight:

“I’ve advocated changing our approach in Iraq and for doing whatever it takes to accomplish our objectives in the region so that we leave Iraq with our mission accomplished - an Iraqi goverment ready and able to govern, security forces capable of protecting Iraqis and policing their nation, and a strong infrastructure and growing economy. I hope the troop surge accomplishes that.


“There is some indication that some of the commanding officers may have indicated this approach isn’t preferred. I’ve said all along that we must listen to our military commanders in Iraq and it is my hope that the President’s request is in response to the requests they have made of the Pentagon. From what I understand, the President’s announcement tonight on the newly increased focus on political and economic efforts is in direct response to our military commanders' requests and I’m pleased by that.


“It’s too soon to know if this approach will or won’t work. Those that rush to agree with the President’s proposal are rushing to judgment, as are those that object to this plan simply because it is from the President. I will continue to support the troops already deployed to Iraq. I will also be watchful of the results of this plan, and hope that it produces a significantly more stable, self-sufficient Iraq.”