U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) voted with a majority of his colleagues in favor of H.R. 4156, legislation to change the mission of U.S. forces in Iraq and begin the redeployment of U.S. troops within 30 days of the bill’s enactment. The bill provides $50 billion to meet the needs of troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and prohibits the deployment of any troops not fully trained and equipped. Larsen released the following statement after the bill passed the House by a vote of 218 to 203, with one Member voting present.

“The American people have spoken loud and clear.  Now is the time to begin the strategic redeployment of U.S. troops from Iraq and refocus our efforts on fighting terrorists.”

“The United States needs to end our military involvement in Iraq’s civil war and re-focus our efforts on defeating terrorists wherever they are, including Iraq. Our current policy in Iraq is hindering our military readiness and our ability to fight terrorists around the world.”

“This bill gives our servicemen and women the resources they need to do their jobs, but it does not give President Bush the blank check he has requested.”

Larsen is a member of the House Armed Services Committee.