Democrats Push for Troop Withdrawal from Iraq, Republicans Resistant

Strategic Insights -

Senate Democrats, led by Sen. Richard J. Durbin, are calling for the redeployment of troops from Iraq, citing the recovery of two US soldiers' bodies as a "grim reminder" of the need for an exit strategy. Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, have condemned the proposal as a "cut and run" that would embolden terrorists and undermine the war effort.

Democrats propose that combat troops be redeployed from Iraq by either July 1, 2007 (Senators John Kerry and Russ Feingold) or by a phased redeployment starting by December 31 (Senators Carl Levin and Jack Reed). These proposals come as the Senate embarks on a second week of debating Iraq policy, with the defense authorization bill serving as a backdrop.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Senate is expected to spend at least five hours debating two competing Democratic proposals for troop withdrawal from Iraq.
  • Democrats argue that the recovery of two US soldiers' bodies is a "grim reminder" of the need for an exit strategy, while Republicans claim that withdrawal would embolden terrorists.
  • The proposed amendments, sponsored by Senators Levin and Reed, and Senators Kerry and Feingold, will need 51 votes to become attached to the defense authorization bill.
  • Senator John McCain opposes the proposals, stating that the focus should be on "how we leave" rather than "when we leave."
  • Republicans are expected to resist the proposals, with Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist calling withdrawal a "dishonor of historic proportions."
  • Democrats, such as Senator Richard J. Durbin, emphasize the need for the Iraqi people to assume responsibility for their nation's security.
  • National Security Adviser Stephen J. Hadley stated that Iraqis are concerned about a rapid withdrawal of US forces.

Statistics:

  • The Senate spent 10 hours debating Iraq policy last week and is expected to spend at least 5 hours debating these proposals.
  • Over 2,500 troops have been killed in the Iraq war since its inception in March 2003.
  • The nonbinding amendment proposed by Senators Levin and Reed is expected to set no pace or speed for combat troops to leave Iraq.
  • The Senate voted 79-19 to pass a nonbinding amendment saying Iraq should not grant amnesty to terrorists who attack, kill or wound US troops.
  • The Senate also voted 64-34 to approve a measure recognizing Iraq as a sovereign nation.

Sources:

  • Byline: Christina Bellantoni, THE WASHINGTON TIMES
  • THE WASHINGTON TIMES, May 10, 2006, emphasis added.