I recently called Rep. Sweeney's (NY-20) office asking him to impeach Bush, and this is his reply.
Fri, 9 Sep 2005 11:19:12 -0400
After 9/11, our nation united against terrorism and those who want to
kill innocent civilians and destroy our American way of life. New York
was impacted deeply by the tragic events and our citizens understand
first-hand the kind of unthinkable damage that can be inflicted by
hate-filled violent extremists.
Protecting and securing America's homeland remains a top priority
within our national borders and abroad. Global stability or instability
directly affects the United States in all areas, urban, rural and
suburban.
Our President has directed a national security strategy of preemptive
action against terrorists and those who harbor them. We are taking the
fight to the terrorists overseas in order to protect American's safety
at home. The war on terrorism is one America cannot afford to lose.
Our way of life is at stake as we defend freedom, democracy and peace
around the world. I support this approach.
One necessary campaign in the war against terror is in Iraq. I voted
to support the use of force against Iraq for many reasons: decades of
deception and violation of United Nations resolutions; invading
neighboring countries; and a litany of ruthless atrocities by Saddam Hussein
against his own people. Events have led us to conclude that as long as
Iraq lived in the grip of a ruthless dictatorship, its society was prone
to ideologies that bred hatred creating a country where violence
gathered and was exported across its borders. Along with the President, I
believe that the best way to safeguard freedom in our nation increasingly
depends on supporting liberty in areas beyond our borders. That is why
supporting the creation of a democratic Iraq is so important to the
futures of both our countries.
Not long ago many said that election in Iraq were impossible. But
elections were held and democracy is dawning. The mood in Iraq is one of
great promise. None of this would have been possible without the hard
work of our troops. I have traveled to Iraq three times and seen the
impact of our servicemen and women first hand. The members of our
military are unrelenting in battle, unwavering in loyalty, and unmatched in
honor.
Creating a democratic Iraq is no easy task. For decades, Iraqis had
been ruled by an oppressive regime and such a past would leave deep scars
on any nation. But on January 30th, 2005, over 8 million Iraqis, over
60% of the population, voted for the first time in their lifetimes and
took an enormous step forward toward cementing democracy in their
country. By courageously going to the polls, the Iraqis have exposed the
insurgents as a minority that does not represent the Iraqi people. We
still face much hard work and difficult days ahead. Yet, since the
election, a climate of optimism has emerged in Iraq, making it more
important than ever that America stands firm in its support of the Iraqi
citizens.
Your concerns are important to me. I appreciate hearing from you and
will continue to welcome your views on such crucial national issues.
Sincerely,
JOHN E. SWEENEY
Member of Congress
If you would like to provide additional comments, please feel free to
contact me through my website.
www.house.gov/sweeney