Wilson: "We should have a strong debate, but it should be factual, not ideological and certainly not political in nature."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 9, 2008

CONTACT: Ryan Murphy
(202) 225-2452 (Office)
(202) 689-4825 (Cell)

Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) issued the following statement today after hearing a report from General David Petraeus, Commanding General for Multi-National Force - Iraq, and Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker on conditions on the ground in Iraq.

"Today's testimonies by General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker underlined several important facts: the Surge has been successful; violence in Iraq has declined tremendously; and, political reconciliation is on the rise. Both individuals noted that much is left to be done. I agree that their assessment should be met with cautious optimism but optimism nonetheless. What their report makes very clear is that our strategy is succeeding but that failure by way of a precipitous withdrawal would have terrible consequences for our national security.

"Calls by Democrats to either ignore or flat out deny the progress that has been made does no service to this debate. It simply rehashes old talking points that do not reflect the reality on the ground and stands in the way of a constructive debate over how we move forward. We should have a strong debate, but it should be factual, not ideological and certainly not political in nature.

"Ambassador Crocker, General Petraeus, and the men and women of our diplomatic corps and armed forces deserve nothing less than our heartfelt thanks for the tremendous work they do on behalf of American families and the cause of freedom. Patriotic individuals have chosen to stand up and defeat our enemies overseas so we do not face them here at home. I am grateful for their service."

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