“Today’s Montgomery Advertiser article grossly misrepresents my views on military action in Iraq. Although there is no rush to judgment, I fully and completely support President Bush and U.S. sovereignty with respect to use of military force.

“The men and women in the armed forces have my strongest support in fulfilling President Bush’s vision for a terror-free world. Although full United Nations support is preferable, the United States cannot, and should not, be held hostage by other countries, especially those that have benefited mightily from American support. We must do what is in the United States’ best interest.

“If that means standing alone in ridding Iraq, and the free world, of this terrorist dictator, then I am confident our armed forces will prevail in the cause of freedom.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I reiterate that the onus is on Iraq to prove its compliance, not for the inspectors to find a smoking gun. If Iraq does not comply with the United Nations decree, the United States maintains the right to pursue a policy of regime change in Iraq, including the use of preemptive military force if necessary.”