Mondello Statement

As General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker update Congress on the War in Iraq, it is important to remember that Presidential candidates and military experts alike have agreed that the best way to successfully end the Iraq war as quickly as possible is to trust and support the decisions of the commanders in the field.

Last fall, General Petraeus’ report on the success of the surge to Congress validated why this was the right approach.

Since the surge began, violence has continued to fall, terrorist groups have been neutralized and Iraqis have stepped up to provide a greater share of the cost and manpower required to bring even greater stability. This increasing sense of security has enabled the Iraqi government to develop and provide the basic services and sense of normalcy that the Iraqi people desperately need.

In contrast to Senators Clinton and Obama’s attempts to manipulate the war to advance their own political fortunes, John McCain’s steadfast courage, experienced leadership and clear vision provide great comfort to Americans during these dangerous and uncertain times.

-30-