This resolution is not offered in good faith; it is a blatant effort to confront, to embarrass, and to chide anyone who has legitimate questions about how this war is being prosecuted. It is cynical and mean-spirited, and most tragically, it is a disservice to our troops who are serving valiantly and sacrificing their lives every day to accomplish the mission they were given.

Our nation’s future role in Iraq is a serious matter that affects the lives of all Americans. Consequently, the American public have legitimate questions – not necessarily about the value of our mission there, but about how we expect to achieve our goals. They want to know what victory will look like, the steps we will take to get there, and the appropriate time for our forces to leave safely. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, their families here at home, and all Americans deserve those answers.

Yesterday, my friend and colleague, Jack Murtha, a patriot and a decorated veteran, attempted to start that dialogue. However, instead of having a frank discussion about the potential consequences of immediate troop withdrawal or addressing the burning questions in the minds of most Americans, the Republican leadership disingenuously twisted Mr. Murtha’s words, making a mockery of the democratic principles that we hope to instill throughout the world.

Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the right to oversee the operations of the military. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, it is a responsibility I take very seriously. Instead of seeking a plan for victory, the Republican leadership has given the American people silence and the status quo. If we do not endeavor to provide the answers that so many demand, we will have failed in our responsibilities.

I urge my colleagues to vote against this resolution and to demonstrate that we will not play politics on an issue of such magnitude.