We must end the Iraq War now and bring our soldiers home as quickly and safely as possible. We must also continue to provide our soldiers, wounded soldiers, and veterans with the benefits and services they deserve.

I voted against the Joint Congressional Resolution authorizing the war on October 11, 2002. I have supported legislation to end the war and to stop the war's funding and I will continue to do so. With the strain on our military, it is more important than ever to assist our soldiers and veterans. I voted for legislation that included the largest increase in funding for health care and in Veterans Administration history. I worked to pass the Defense authorization and appropriations legislation to give our troops pay and educational benefits increases and make sure they have better equipment and more safeguards to reduce the dangers they face in combat.

In Congress, I am committed to a responsible, phased withdrawal of our troops from Iraq and increasing the benefits and pay of every service member and their family.