Issue Position: What is Your Position on the War in Iraq?

Issue Position

Had I been in Congress at the time, I would have voted with the rest of the Hawai`i delegation against the war. Preemptive strike should not be the basis of our foreign policy - such an act should require a very high threshold of accurate information, which we did not have.

The Bush administration misled the country when it entered this war, and has shown no credible plan for winning the peace or for a safe exit strategy. We should get out of the quagmire that is Iraq with a phased redeployment of U.S. forces that begins before the end of 2006 and significant transition to full Iraqi sovereignty should also occur. The U.S. should play a leading role in promoting peace in the region. As long as we are at war, we are severely compromised in our ability to do so.

Until the troops are out of harm's way, they deserve the best available gear, armor, and moral support. I support common sense measures such as providing padded, shock absorbent helmets for our Marines. For as little as $100 per helmet, we could prevent traumatic brain damage and loss of life. Congress should require the Marine Corps to follow the Army's lead in issuing these reinforced helmets to every service man and woman.

When our troops return home as veterans, we must provide adequate mental and physical health services, as well as economic and career assistance. The President and his Republican Congress have repeatedly shown their willingness to cut VA services and funding while recklessly sending troops into battle.

I am running for Congress to ensure that we only send our men and women to war if absolutely necessary, that we protect them while they are in battle, and that we take care of them when they return home.

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