WASHINGTON, DC -- “Four years ago I voted against sending troops to Iraq.   Today I stand with the majority of my colleagues and the majority of the American people in support of the Iraq Accountability Act.  The legislation calls for providing the necessary funds to sustain our military operation but sets benchmarks that will ensure the safe and timely return of America’s service personnel.

“It’s time, time to bring an end to the ill-conceived Iraqi conflict that has taken the lives of more than 3,200 brave American soldiers and untold Iraqi citizens, left tens of thousands of service members severely injured and cost this country hundreds of billions of dollars and the respect of other nations.

“After more than four years, the time has come for a new direction in Iraq. As Commander in Chief, the President’s first responsibility is to the security of all Americans and specifically to our troops.  It is time for Iraq’s military and political leaders to show that they are making progress in securing their nation and its citizens.

“The clock is ticking; it is time to wind down our operation in Iraq. It is time to allow the citizens of Iraq to take control of their country and their destiny, time to bring our troops home.”