my new rep voted no to more war funding

[stephinrome]

I wanted to share the statement from my new Representative in the House, Jared Polis, (see below) on why he voted against the supplemental (war funding) bill. It was really refreshing after reading of all the "progressive" members of Congress who voted for the bill while saying they were against it.

And yes, I called to thank him! You can, too, regardless of what state you vote in :)

[phone]

Stephanie
ps-here's the roll call: http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2009/roll265.xml


Washington, May 14 - Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) issued the following statement today on voting against H.R. 2346, the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009:

Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) Statement on H.R. 2346, the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009 Thursday, May 5, 2009

The Defense Supplemental funds a number of worthy and important projects, including international humanitarian assistance for refugees and medical assistance for people suffering from HIV and AIDS. I applaud my colleagues, Chairman Obey in particular, for addressing these priorities. Unfortunately, the positive aspects of this bill cannot hide its underlying premise-funding a misguided war in Iraq and Afghanistan-a policy that I believe must be changed.

At its heart, this bill is about increasing and prolonging US military involvement in Afghanistan, which I do not support. I recently traveled to both Iraq and Afghanistan and saw first-hand the very real challenges that our presence creates. Let´s be clear-President Obama inherited two wars and I know he is committed to ending both responsibly. I, however, do not believe there can be a military solution to the conflict and therefore cannot support this bill.

The occupation of Afghanistan will not help us defeat the very real threat of Al Qaeda. Although I am especially encouraged by the "diplomatic surge" and Special Forces´ efforts to defeat the threat of Al Qaeda, our resources could be better spent on diplomacy and targeted security operations, rather than continued occupation. I strongly support President Obama and his efforts to end our presence in Iraq. I believe that the best way to support the President is for me to use my vote to help force a discussion about our strategy and tactics in Afghanistan, and for that reason I am voting no.

We cannot achieve peace through the occupation of an entire country. We tried and failed in Iraq, and we cannot afford to do so again. We need a fresh look at our policy in Afghanistan, and this can only come through open discussion and debate. My action today is not a vote against our military or a vote against our President, but an urgent call for an exit strategy for Afghanistan and a plan for peace and security.

[PuraVidaDreamin]

1. That's fantastic!

The other day at work, I was on break talking to a few other people about some current events while Faux blasted
in the back ground. Told them I had my congress person on speed dial. Pulled out my phone, called the office-
blasted on a few issues, then passed the phone around the room. In 10 minutes 3 of us let off some steam.

But my dude usually votes people first.

[Vidar]

2. Glad to hear it.

[Robbien]

3. Mine voted no also :highfive:

Jan Schakowsky is my Rep. and she is as much of a peacenik as I.

:)