| Reaction to Saddam Hussein's Capture |
Governor Mark Sanford's statement: “My hope is that this will be a day that lifts hopes and boosts spirits, not only for the troops over there who continue to face danger around the clock, but also for the families here at home who’ve either lost loved ones or still have loved ones in harm’s way over in Iraq,” said Gov. Sanford. “I hope it’ll be something that builds strength and lends purpose to what we’re doing, and I’d particularly single out our state’s men and women who have played such a central role in this continuing effort. South Carolina always has and will continue to answer the call of duty.” Congressman Joe Wilson's statement: "Today is a message to the world's dictators and terrorists - whoever you are and wherever you are, America will be after you to protect the American people," said Congressman Wilson. "The capture of the murderous dictator vindicates the valiant and historically successful sacrifices of the American and Coalition troops. All along I had faith our competent military will prevail in the long-term War on Terror -terrorists of any rank anywhere are not safe from our efforts to protect the American people from more cowardly attacks. I am especially grateful as the father of a son soon to be deployed to Iraq that the families of our troops can be reassured that we have extraordinarily capable leaders as exemplified by Generals Ricardo Sanchez and his predecessor Tommy Franks," said Congressman Wilson. "May God bless the freed people of Iraq, and may God bless our troops," said Congressman Wilson. Senator Lindsey Graham's statement: "The big winner with Saddam's capture are the Iraqi people. Their oppressor has been accounted for and will soon be brought to justice to meet his fate. The capture is also a tremendous morale booster for our men and women fighting the war on terrorism. It is the direct result of their bravery and perseverance. The capture of Saddam will lead to many breakthroughs in the reconstruction of Iraq. "It would indeed be a tragedy if the governments who lent money to Saddam now insist the Iraqi people pay the debts of their oppressor. I hope the capture of Saddam will help former Secretary of State James Baker in his efforts to seek forgiveness of these debts. Any county who insists on repayment by the Iraqi people for debts occurred by their oppressor has lost their moral way. "Finally, this is a great day for the Bush Administration because it validates their unwavering policy of holding those who are part of the war on terror accountable." Congressman Jim DeMint's statement: "The world now has unmistakable proof - Saddam Hussein has joined history's long list of vanquished tyrants. This operation was a testament to the hard work, skill and determination of our armed forces and intelligence community. By capturing Saddam alive, the Iraqi people can hold him accountable for his crimes and close a dark chapter in their history. "Yet, the capture of Saddam Hussein will provide closure for not only the Iraqi people, but for the civilized world. Saddam will never again spread fear and chaos in Iraq and neighboring countries. "After Saddam's capture, the battle to win the peace in Iraq will continue, but the Iraqi people can now enjoy a peace of mind they have not enjoyed for many years. "The Iraqi people and the coalition should celebrate this historic event but continue to work together to build a stable, democratic society that can be a beachhead for freedom in the war on terror." General Wesley Clark's statement: The Hague-- "I could not be prouder of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces for capturing this horrible despot. This is a testament to their courage and determination. I'd also like to congratulate Lt.General Sanchez and the intelligence community for the crucial role they played. We've been due good news from Iraq and the world is a safer and better place now that he is in custody." Congressman Dick Gephardt: "Today is a great day for our troops, the Coalition forces and the people of Iraq. "I supported this effort in Iraq without regard for the political consequences because it was the right thing to do. I still feel that way now and today is a major step toward stabilizing Iraq and building a new democracy. "For many years, we will be confronted with a war on terrorism that is unfinished. This will be a long and difficult struggle and we need a president who has the credibility to unite the American people and our allies in an effort to make our nation and our world safe." Senator Joe Lieberman's statement: “Hallelujah, praise the Lord. This is something that I have been advocating and praying for for more than twelve years, since the Gulf War of 1991. Saddam Hussein was a homicidal maniac, a brutal dictator, who wanted to dominate the Arab world and was supporting terrorists. He caused the death of more than a million people, including 460 Americans who went to overthrow him. This is a day of glory for the American military, a day of rejoicing for the Iraqi people, and a day of triumph and joy for anyone in the world who cares about freedom, human rights, and peace. This evil man has to face the death penalty. The international tribunal in The Hague cannot order the death penalty, so my first question about where he’s going to be tried will be answered by whether that tribunal can execute him. If it cannot be done by the Iraqi military tribunal, he should be brought before an American military tribunal and face death. We’ve got some challenges ahead of us. This is not over. We’ve got to seize this moment, bring in the international community to help us rebuild Iraq, ask NATO to join us in the peacekeeping, complete our victory over the insurgents and terrorists that are fighting us, and let the Iraqis govern themselves. This news also makes clear the choice the Democrats face next year. If Howard Dean had his way, Saddam Hussein would still be in power today, not in prison, and the world would be a more dangerous place. If we Democrats want to win back the White House and take this country forward, we have to show the American people that we’re prepared to keep them safe. I consistently supported Saddam’s removal for the past decade, and am prepared to do what it takes to win the war on terrorism at home and abroad.” | |
