(Washington D.C.)- Congressman Russ Carnahan (MO-3rd) offered the following remarks on Capitol Hill today in response to recommendations released by the Congressionally authorized Iraq study group. 

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Congressman Carnahan serves on the U.S. House International Relations Committee.  The committee oversees U.S. relations with foreign nations including jurisdiction over efforts to combat international terrorism and nuclear proliferation, as well as other international programs and organizations such as the United Nations. 

Subcommittees assigned to Congressman Carnahan include subcommittees on terrorism and the Middle East.

STATEMENT REGARDING IRAQ STUDY GROUP REPORT

"This Iraq Study Group report presents an opportunity for a new direction, but much must be done in order to insure the President's failed policy of Stay the Course is replaced with actions that better protect our troops and promote stability across the Middle East."

"Continued violence in Iraq speaks volumes about the need for change.  The observations and recommendations of the ISG report deserve meaningful consideration.  Given all that our troops, their families, and our nation have already sacrificed, it is time to put forward policies that honor their efforts, protect their interests and the interests of our nation and the greater good."

"The days of the Republican Congress relinquishing its role overseeing the war's development are gone.  By electing a new Democratic majority the American people seek change."

"On their behalf we will demand accountability and answers from the Administration." 

"Without reservation the New Democratic Congress will exercise real and significant oversight of the Iraq War." 

"With that in mind, we stand ready to work in a bi-partisan way that the American public would expect and welcome."

-Russ Carnahan
Congressman Missouri Third District
12-06-06

U.S. HOUSE INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE JURISDICTION

The House Committee on International Relations has oversight and legislative responsibility for international security, non-proliferation and disarmament issues, international crime, narcotics, terrorism and espionage issues, U.S. Department of State and related agency operations, U.S. foreign assistance, and various other issues related to U.S. foreign policy interests. In general, the Committee conducts ongoing meetings with foreign political leaders and United States government Administration officials. These meetings allow Committee Members the opportunity to explore the effectiveness of the Administration’s implementation of foreign policy.

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