Letter to Crapo, Craig sent today

March 26, 2007

Dear Senator,

I'm writing to urge you to support the Defense supplemental bill that contains benchmarks and a timetable for withdrawal from Iraq. As you might expect from me, I firmly believe that this bill does not do ENOUGH, however it still is critical as a first step toward getting us out of Iraq.

Across the country INCLUDING Idaho, it is obvious that “we the people” are in support of a timely withdrawal from Iraq. It is my understanding that this bill utilizes President Bush's own benchmarks to determine when or if we start redeploying.

I realize that over the years you have been committed to following your party line and have supported President Bush through your past legislative votes—but at some point in time, you need to recognize that your obligation to the citizens of Idaho and America should take precedence over the GOP expectations. Even Sen. Hagel has realized that changes must be made by stating on ABC’s This Week: "I will not continue to support with my vote the status quo.”

You and your fellow Republicans need to see how badly change is needed. You need to support this bill. Do NOT remove the deadlines from the bill. Even though I (and many others) would prefer stronger and earlier deadlines to be established, I am willing to compromise AT THIS TIME. I hope you are willing to compromise as well with this bill so we can begin to move forward.

As you know, I oppose the war in Iraq. I oppose any and all funding to continue the war -- although I support funding to properly arm, protect and train our currently deployed troops. I understand that demanding all or nothing isn't going to end the war, or get any troops home. This bill is a first step in the process to ending the war. There is a long-term strategy at work here and I realize that getting every single thing I want isn't possible. TOGETHER, we must reach a compromise.

This should not be about being a Republican or a Democrat.

This should not be about personal pet projects or campaign fund-raising.

This should not be about re-elections.

This should not be about ego or power or “who supports the troops more” arguments.

This is about acknowledging the reality of the situation.

This is about recognizing what needs to be done and doing it.

This is about listening to the people across America and responding to their cries.

This is about supporting a bill that contains benchmarks and a timetable for withdrawing from Iraq.