Media Center

WASHINGTON—Congressman David Scott received a status report on Iraq today from General David H. Petraeus, Commanding General Multi-National Force – Iraq and the Honorable Ryan C. Crocker, United States Ambassador to Iraq. Congressman Scott participated in the hearing as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. House Armed Services Committee members also attended.

“I have great respect for General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker and I found their reports to be very informative,” said Congressman Scott. “There are a lot of subjective analyses on the success of the surge. However, we must weigh these reports judiciously and soberly look at the facts. Facts do not lie.”

According to Congressman Scott, there are three facts that must be considered when measuring the success of the surge in American troop levels in Iraq.

First, is the wear and tear on our military. Second, is the stability of the Maliki government. Thirdly, is the will of the American People to continue supporting the current course of action.

“The President's 'surge' has not led to any increased political reconciliation, which we know is crucial for Iraq to become a stable nation.” Congressman Scott said. “In fact, the only breathing room it's allowed is for the Iraqi government to take a vacation. As such, it's time to begin a responsible, measured redeployment of our troops from Iraq."

Congressman Scott is the vice-chair of the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade; a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly; and a co-chair of the Democratic Study Group on National Security.