Crapo: We Need to Support Troops, Protect National Security

CRAPO: WE NEED TO SUPPORT TROOPS,
PROTECT NATIONAL SECURITY

Senator says UN actions are not taking a path with "clear resolution"

Washington, DC - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo tonight praised President George W. Bush's leadership in defending U.S. national security interests and called on Idahoans and Americans to "support our troops and the right to defend ourselves" against the threat of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Crapo said the President's points about these being the "final days of decision" and that "our peaceful efforts to disarm this regime have failed because this is not a peaceful regime" were on target in describing the situation with Iraq.

Crapo said the President made a strong case when he said weapons of mass destruction in Iraq could find their way into the hands of terrorists, thus increasing the threat of terrorism against the U.S. In taking a break from the Budget Resolution debate on the Senate floor, Crapo had these comments regarding the President's address to the nation tonight:

"The President has made extensive efforts to work with an international coalition and the United Nations when it comes to the Iraqi threat. It is obvious now that the efforts at the United Nations are not coming to any clear resolution. It is time for a decision to be made.

"Although it is important to consult with the international community, the bottom line is when our national security interests are at stake, our Constitution states the President and the Congress are the ones that must make the decisions that are needed to protect our national security. The President has made it clear we need to act and has been patient in making his case. Now, it is time for Idahoans and Americans to come together to support our troops and our President in efforts to protect our national security."