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Washington, D.C. -- Rep. Rush Holt (NJ-12) today issued the following statement regarding Iraq’s parliamentary elections:
“The people of Iraq passed another major milestone today in their effort to establish a functioning, representative democracy. Their courage in defying insurgent death threats to go to the polls is something all Americans admire. I thank the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who are helping provide the security necessary to make this vote possible. Their dedication and sacrifice inspire all of us.
“Now that Iraq has elected its first free parliament, it is incumbent upon us to work with the new government to establish a start date for the redeployment of American forces. The best way we can strengthen the legitimacy of the new Iraqi government is to begin reducing our presence there and refocusing our attention on revitalizing and internationalizing the reconstruction effort, particularly in the provinces most affected by the insurgency. Taking these critical steps will provide us with the best chance of helping Iraqis create the secure and stable society they seek.”
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