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WASHINGTON – Senator Joe Lieberman (I/D-CT) issued the following statement today:
“I understand that there is much controversy surrounding the President’s new plan to achieve success in Iraq. Congress should certainly offer the Administration guidance and provide oversight as we move forward. However, because I support the President’s new plan for success in Iraq, I will, of course, oppose any Sense of the Senate resolution that expresses opposition to it. Even though such a resolution would do nothing to stop the implementation of the proposed new military, political, and economic plan, it will send a mixed message of division to both our troops and our enemies.
Moreover, I believe it would be a dangerous mistake to cut off funds to our troops while they are fighting to achieve their mission. An article appeared today in the Hartford Courant which incorrectly suggested that I hold the position that President Bush should defy Congress and proceed with his plan even if Congress voted to cut off funds for the thousands of new American troops deployed to Iraq. To set the record straight, I strongly support the President's new strategy for success and hope he will resist a cut-off of funds, including a veto of legislation that might be passed blocking funding to implement that strategy. However, if a law was adopted blocking funding over his veto objection, which I hope and believe will not happen - of course, the President would be obligated to comply with it.
It is a dangerous illusion to believe that we can depart Iraq and the inevitable killing fields and terrorist violence will not follow us in retreat - even to our own shores. That is why it is right and imperative that we recommit ourselves to success in Iraq.”
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