Tom Hayden: Rep Woolsey's Iraq Exit Strategy Hearning Successful

[understandinglife]

EXIT STRATEGY HEARING SUCCESSFUL: REPORT ON EXIT STRATEGY CONGRESSIONAL HEARING

by Tom Hayden on September 16, 2005

Some of us set out in July to accomplish objectives: to achieve the first Congressional hearings on an exit strategy from Iraq, to instigate “people's diplomacy” with Iraqis, and to build momentum through a people's petition campaign, all before the large anti-war demonstrations planned for Sept. 24-26 in Washington DC.

We have succeeded. This is a report on the progress so far, and next steps.

Congressional debate finally has turned to an exit strategy from Iraq after an interminable period of dominance by proponents of war and occupation, as a result of the Sept. 15 hearing on withdrawal chaired by Rep. Lynn Woolsey. Twenty-nine members of Congress attended by the four-hour forum, including one Republican, Rep. Walter Jones of North Carolina.

After next week's massive anti-war demonstrations, Congress is expected to increase its gradual exploration of how to get out. Activists who attended the hearing are demanding a specific exit strategy resolution. A critical moment will come in January 2006, the start of the election year, when Bush is likely to send a request for another $100 billion in Iraq funding on top of $100-plus billion for Hurricane Katrina. According to the Wall Street Journal, “cutting spending on Iraq is Americans' top choice for financing the recovery from Katrina.” <9-15-05>.

Much more at the link:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tom-hayden/exit-strategy-hearing-suc_b_7476.html

The report is extensive and details of planned actions are provided.


Peace.