[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1861]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




AUTHORIZATION FOR USE OF MILITARY FORCE AGAINST IRAQ RESOLUTION OF 2002

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                               speech of

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2001

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, the past thirteen months 
have presented challenges on several international and domestic fronts. 
The current economic conditions facing our Nation are impacting the 
very day-to-day activities of all Americans. In addition, America has 
enlisted in a war to prevent future terrorist attacks on our homeland. 
The events of 9-11-02, have opened our eyes to the kind of terror from 
abroad that many have endured from within.
  Let me be clear--we must use our able resources to stop Al Qaeda from 
further terrorizing freedom-loving people.
  After listening intently to the case for action that the Bush 
Administration has presented and talking with many of my constituents, 
I believe that there is insufficient information to warrant sending our 
young men and women into harm's way. I oppose the current Congressional 
resolution for the following reasons:
  (1) Lack of international support and cooperation;
  (2) Over-extension of military resources;
  (3) War against Al Qaeda is continuing;
  (4) No exit strategy has been defined; and
  (5) Cost is yet undetermined.
  The Bush Administration has failed to provide sufficient evidence 
linking Saddam to Al Qaeda; therefore, a preemptive unilateral strike 
is not warranted at this time. The Administration has failed to define 
its goal with regard to the use of force in Iraq. Until that definition 
is outlined and the aforementioned points are addressed, a preemptive 
strike against a sovereign state is premature.

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