Washington, D.C. – Congressman André Carson released the following statement today on the Iraq War following the congressional testimony of General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker.

“The bravery and courage shown by our troops serving in Iraq has been simply remarkable. However, the Bush Administration and the Iraqi government have failed to match the gallant efforts of our brave men and women in uniform.

“Because of the Administration’s failed war strategies and the Iraqi government’s inability to make strong political gains, I and others in Congress are calling on President Bush to redeploy our troops out of Iraq.

“The American people can no longer afford the costs in blood nor can we afford the strains it has put on our budget and ailing economy. Over 4,000 troops have been killed and 29,000 others seriously injured in Iraq. Furthermore, over half a trillion dollars in U.S. taxpayer funds have been spent in this long campaign. This is half a trillion dollars that could have gone towards strengthening our economy, creating jobs, and improving our schools.

“The time has come for us to seek a New Direction. A New Direction that strengthens our ability to combat terrorists and those who seek to do us harm. A New Direction that puts the needs of the American people first. A New Direction that redeploys our troops out of Iraq.”

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