Op-ed by Dan Boren:
Thursday, January 27, 2005     

Without question, the Iraqi elections represent a historic opportunity for the Middle East, and for the Iraqi people.  Tomorrow’s elections for a national assembly did not come without sacrifice, but they mark a crucial and necessary turning point in Iraq’s evolution from dictatorship to democracy. 

 

The achievement of Iraq’s elections is due to the U.S. servicemen and women who defeated tyranny and continue to defend the fragile democratic process. Regardless of our personal politics, we all are deeply grateful to the courageous troops who risk their lives defending freedom.  During this time of great peril, we are honored by those who would lay down their lives in the service of our country.

 

The U.S. led coalition faces many uncertainties in the coming weeks and months.  The most obvious one is whether the Administration’s doctrine of spreading democracy throughout the region will prevail.   

 

In the weeks leading up to this defining moment, we’ve witnessed unconscionable violence and cruelty at the hands of terrorists and others who would rather spread fear than freedom.  Terrorists hope to weaken the determination of our courageous troops and Iraqis before the arrival of effective self-government, and before Iraqis have the capability to defend their freedom.  But little more than 13 months after our troops successfully captured Saddam Hussein, American strength and resolve remains unrelenting in the face of danger.   

 

We continue to face difficult decisions regarding security and government in post-war Iraq.  As we proceed, we should let history be our guide.  Looking back on the successful democratization of axis countries after World War II, I am reminded of what can be accomplished when a repressive government is defeated, and democracy allowed to grow. 

 

While the elections are a significant achievement, we must finish the job that we started.  Democracy amid chaos is not an easy task, but democracy in Iraq is too important to the security of the region and therefore to the world.  Nonetheless, when stability is established, the U.S. must leave Iraq in the hands of an effectively self-governed Iraqi people, step back and let democracy flourish.   

  

As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I plan to watch the situation in Iraq very closely.  I will work with my colleagues in the House to protect our troops and make sure they have the equipment and resources they need to do their jobs.  I am also planning to visit Iraq in March to get a first hand look at our operations on the ground and visit with Oklahoma troops directly.  This will be invaluable in guiding my assessment of our efforts in this country.       

It was once said that America's support for human rights and democracy is our noblest export to the world.  Through the tireless effort of our troops, the nation of Iraq is now free from its oppressive leader and the citizens of Iraq can finally build a prosperous, free and democratic nation. 

 

I am humbled by the responsibility that you have bestowed upon me to represent you on these issues of great importance.  Thank you for the opportunity to serve.  As always, feel free to contact me at (918) 687-2533 if I can ever be of service.

 

Your Congressman, Dan Boren 

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