Washington, D.C. - Congressman Baird tonight released the following statement after voting against the partisan Iraq War stunt:

"Congressman Jack Murtha has dedicated his life to serving our country, both on the battlefield and in the halls of Congress.  He is a decorated Vietnam combat veteran who has experienced the perils of war firsthand.  A two-time Purple Heart recipient himself, Jack visits with wounded soldiers from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan every week.  There is no Member of the House of Representatives who cares more about our troops, more about our veterans, and more about our country than Jack. 

"Jack’s resolution is deserving of serious consideration and earnest debate.  It is not an excuse for those who possess nowhere near his depth of personal experience and personal integrity to rush an opportunistic vote or engage in partisan political grandstanding. 

"I personally would have preferred to wait until after the December 15 elections in Iraq, when Congress could call upon the newly elected Iraqi government to help craft a timetable for the withdrawal of American troops and engage in a considerate debate of Jack’s resolution.   

"I am utterly appalled that the Republicans have taken a sincere, heartfelt position of distinction and turned it into a flagrant political stunt.  This is one of the most shameful political spectacles I have ever witnessed."

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