May 26, 2005 |
Dear CODEPINK Activist, Thank you so much for responding to our urgent call yesterday about Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey's amendment to the Defense Authorization bill asking President Bush for a plan to withdraw from Iraq (click here for the text). We're sorry to have contacted you so late, but it was only yesterday that we learned that the House Rules Committee had approved bringing up the amendment for a vote. Despite the delay, we're making a difference! The amendment was defeated 128 to 300, but given the atmosphere in Congress, that's not bad. Also, let's put it in historical perspective: In the case of Vietnam, while the conflict escalated in 1965, it was not until 1971 that Congress began to vote on ending the war. How did the vote break down? We managed to get 122 Democrats, and 5 brave Republicans to vote "yes", including Rep Walter Jones from North Carolina, who wanted to change the name of french fries to 'freedom' fries! (Click here for details, and here for an article). In the coming weeks, there will be new opportunities in both the House and the Senate to push for an exit plan, and you can count on us to be in contact with you, informing you of next steps to peace. The Woolsey amendment was an important first step in a larger and longer campaign. Let's celebrate yet another victory! A few hours ago the Democrats forced the Senate to put off the final vote on Bolton's nomination to the UN! The Republicans needed 60 votes to overturn Senator Boxer's "hold", but the vote was 56 to 42 - 4 shy of that threshold. The final Bolton vote won't take place until the Senate returns after the Memorial Day recess. Click here for breaking news. Power to the People, |
