Saluting Progress and Milestone Elections in Iraq

SALUTING PROGRESS AND MILESTONE ELECTIONS IN IRAQ -- (House of Representatives - December 15, 2005)

(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. Madam Speaker, in October 2002, Saddam Hussein ridiculously reported he received 100 percent support during a sham election in which he was the only candidate in the race. Three years later due the bravery of American troops and Iraqi security forces, the people of Iraq now have an historic opportunity to select 275 individuals from over 6,655 candidates to serve in their national Council of Representatives.

National elections in Iraq are another symbol of progress and another demonstration of our coalition troops' efforts, including my son who served a year in Iraq, to spread freedom throughout the world. Our brave soldiers recognize that they are fighting in a war that will secure democracy in Iraq which ultimately protects American families from terrorists who would rather attack our citizens.

As the Iraqi people continue down the path of democracy, they should know the American people are proud of their continued successes and believe in the future of Iraq.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11.

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