Our senators and representative respond to Bush's Iraq policy. From the Mercury News:
WASHINGTON - South Dakota's congressional delegation had mixed reactions to President Bush's speech on war policy Wednesday.
Democratic Stephanie Herseth, the state's only representative in the House, said she shares the president's view that training of Iraqi troops is paramount.
"I hope this renewed focus will enable us to begin drawing down our troops in the region at the appropriate time and to continue to turn over a stable democratic Iraq to the Iraqi security forces," Herseth said, echoing many other Democrats.
In his speech at the U.S. Naval Academy, Bush refused to set a timetable for U.S. troop withdrawals and asserted that once-shaky Iraqi troops are proving increasingly capable.
He did not outline a new strategy for the nearly three-year-old war. Rather, the speech was intended as a comprehensive answer to mounting criticism and questions.
"Today's speech sent a clear message of commitment to our troops on the front line and liberated Iraqis, and one of determination and strength to the terrorists who continue to try to shake our resolve," said Republican Sen. John Thune.
"Redoubling our efforts to train Iraqi security forces will help stabilize the country and enable our troops complete their mission," said Democratic Sen. Tim Johnson. "I'm pleased the President recognizes that this goal should be a top priority."
"While I welcome President Bush's comments today, I also look forward to hearing greater detail on what steps the White House will take to bring our soldiers home and secure Iraq," Johnson said.
You can read President Bush's National Strategy for Victory in Iraq here, and the full text of his speech here.
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