Progressive Democrat Issue 112: NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Getting us out of this insane, illegal, immoral war is one of the biggest priorities of the progressive movement. Many leftists simply say, GET US OUT, and are frustrated that Democrats, in the limited time they have been in control of Congress, haven't taken solid steps to get us out. But it isn't so easy. We need to frame it in a way that is hardest for the right wing dominated media to tear down and is easy for even timid politicians to support. And, ideally, we need to do it in a way that will attract support from some Republicans.

I believe that New York Congressman Jerry Nadler has hit on the right balance between getting our soldiers out and keeping them financially supported at every step of the way. Other proposed bills are also good. But I think Nadler's HR 455 is the best. And Democracy for NYC agrees. Here is their statement:

Anti-war advocates have been stating for years that to end the war our elected officials are going to have to stop funding it.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler has introduced H.R. 455 “Protect the Troops and Bring Them Home Act of 2007”

This bill uses the power of the purse to enable troop withdrawal on a timetable (starting within 30 days of enactment and ending no later than Dec. 31, 2007). Funding would be limited to protecting the troops while withdrawing, as well as for diplomacy, without allowing for an increase in troops. The bill is critical because it was written so that it can be an amendment to the next Supplemental Appropriations Bill to limit how the funds can be used.

Call Congressman Nadler and tell him you are supporting this bill. (Washington Office: 202-225-5635 Manhattan Office: 212-367-7350) Tell other congressmembers to sign on to H.R.455.

Right now there are only 13 cosponsors of this bill.

What astonishes me is the lack of support it is getting from OUR NEW YORK CONGRESSIONAL CONTINGENT. Only four New York State Congressional reps have signed on to Nadler's bill to date. That is embarassing! Where is Rangel? Where is Clarke, my newly elected Rep? Where is Wiener? Why are they not supporting this EXCELLENT bill proposed by one of their fellow New Yorkers and endorsed by Democracy for NYC?

Contact your Congressional Rep. and ask them to support Jerry Nadler's bill, to stand behind our fellow New Yorker and to make NY UNITED behind HR 455. I think that is the first step towards getting our troops OUT of Iraq. Also contact the media and express your support for HR 455 as the best way to protect our troops while getting our troops OUT of Bush's quagmire.

Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.