[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 163 (Saturday, December 17, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H12055]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       IRAQ'S DEMOCRATIC VICTORY

  (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday's New York Times 
proclaims loudly that ``Iraqis, Including Sunnis, Voted in Large 
Numbers'' during Thursday's historic elections.
  Throughout the world, people were waking up to the great news about 
Iraq's most recent democratic victory. USA Today discussed the 
inspiring turnout in Iraq, while even Knight Ridder declared that high 
voter turnout in Iraq promises fully representative parliament.
  The National Review reported that U.S. troops describe a festive 
atmosphere across Iraq. The Los Angeles Times wrote that the ballot box 
is the new battle ground. The Boston Globe described how, for one Sunni 
family, casting ballots was an act of resistance.
  I was particularly pleased to learn that the BBC reported the Iraqi 
vote met global standards. From New York to London, the mainstream 
media finally recognized and reported the clear successes of the 
election which delivered a devastating blow to terrorists and 
ultimately helped protect American families.
  In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11.

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