In an article that I wrote previously entitled, Stop Playing Victim and Stand Up To Bush, I attached a copy of a letter that I sent to my U.S. Representative in Congress, John Carter. I wasn’t expecting much since the new Republicans are the most stubborn and narrow-minded political machine I have ever seen in my life. And, true to his political partisanship, I was not surprised when I got his response.

I used to be a Republican, so my criticism of them now is out of character for me but, boy have things changed with the “new” Republicans or Neo-cons as they’re called. Carter is one them so his letter reeks of campaign rhetoric — boasting of his allegiance to the “troops”, and his deep understanding of their needs. I am so sick and tired of hearing about what the troops think that I could puke. They are a professional army who fully understands what a democracy means. So, “supporting the troops” to me, means supporting them in a mission that’s worth dying for. To find out what Rep. Carter had to say and my response, please read on…

Below, is Rep. Carter’s response to my letter:

Dear Pat :

Thank you for contacting me to convey your concerns for our U.S. Military action in Iraq . I appreciate the opportunity to address such an important matter.

As you may know, the district I represent and you live in is home to Fort Hood , which is the largest military installation in the world. Fort Hood ’s units have deployed to Iraq twice each, and I visit with their soldiers and leaders often. You may be interested to know that the 4th Infantry Division, until recently based out of Fort Hood , has the distinction of having captured Saddam Hussein. As representative of our district, I must take the sacrifices and efforts of Fort Hood ’s soldiers into account as I approach this issue.

Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives engaged in debate over a non-binding resolution opposing the President’s plan for an increase of troops in Iraq . Congress only has control over the funding and number of soldiers authorized to the military, but it is the President who has the power to determine where those soldiers are stationed and how many will be committed to battle. I strongly oppose this resolution because it is a non-binding political tool that does not provide a solution or an alternative proposal to end the war in Iraq and it will send a message that undoubtedly weakens the morale of our troops. If Congress is going to act, we should be prepared to take real action and not debate meaningless resolutions that do nothing more than play politics with our soldiers.

I have visited Iraq several times and regularly communicate with the Generals in the field. I will remain committed to providing the military with any supplies they need. In response, I have proudly co-sponsored Sam Johnson’s bill H.R. 511, that pledges faithful support to members of the United States Armed Forces serving in harm’s way. This bill says that Congress will not cut off or restrict funding for the soldiers that the Commander-in-Chief has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

I am firmly committed to supporting the members of our Armed Forces in their efforts to fight and win the Global War on Terror. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the brave men and women who proudly wear our uniform and to the families and friends who remain behind. They are all true heroes. I wish them God-speed in their mission and offer my sincere gratitude on behalf of a proud nation.

Once again, thank you for contacting me with your concerns. If I can be of any further assistance to you, please feel free to contact my office.

Sincerely,

John Carter
Member of Congress

And here is my response:

Honorable Carter:

Obviously, you didn’t read my letter which I know none of you Congressmen do because you have a staff that does it. And, I am sure this is a form letter that they send out to everyone commenting on the war. So, I don’t know why I write since this is the standard practice. I guess it just make me feel like I am doing something, unlike the Republicans on the Hill who do nothing.

And, in regards to the troops in the field, I know they would want to be assured that they are fighting for a country that allows debate in a democratic arena…you know, a thing called democracy. Your blocking this debate is counter to everything we stand for. You say it’s meaningless — I say your blocking it is meaningless and in direct opposition to what a majority of the country want. You, in effect, are hiding behind the troops. And, you cry foul because you aren’t allowed “your amendment” that basically eliminates any option for ending this dreadful, illegal war.

You know, I used to be a Republican when they really stood for something. Now, due to people like you, I’m not. Shame on you and the rest of the Neo-cons. You have destroyed the Republican party.

Sincerely,

Pat L.