Beyond symbolism, Dems seek end to Iraq war

Presidential politics in the mix
In the complicated politics of the war, the spending bill would face daunting hurdles.

Democrats determined to end the conflict have said they will not approve any more money to keep it going. Republicans who support Bush’s policy would be unlikely to support limits on his power as commander in chief.

Unlike a nonbinding measure, legislation is always subject to a presidential veto.

But opponents of the war, their strength increased in last fall’s congressional elections, say public opinion is moving their way.

“Increasingly, Republicans are uncomfortable and in public disagreement with the president’s plan,” said Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis. She said she favors withdrawing the troops “as soon as practicable.”

“The only votes that make a difference to the president is the power of the purse,” said Rep. Lynn Woolsey, D-Calif., who called for the war’s end two years ago.

Democratic presidential politics figure in the Iraq debate, too.

In the House, Rep. Dennis Kucinich of Ohio has an 11-point plan to end the war.

Sens. Hillary Clinton of New York, Barack Obama of Illinois and Chris Dodd of Connecticut have outlined their own proposals. Sen. Joseph Biden has said he will have one, too.

More than a dozen such measures are competing for notice as Congress moves deeper into its war debate; virtually all make the safety of the troops a priority.

Flurry of proposals on the table
Sen. Russell Feingold, D-Wis., was the first to introduce a bill on the subject in the current Congress. On the day lawmakers convened in January, he proposed a six-month deadline for the withdrawal of troops.

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., was the first lawmaker to propose legislation denying permission for Bush to increase troop strength.

Rep. Sam Farr, D-Calif., supports legislation to rescind the authorization that Congress approved in 2002 for the invasion of Iraq, and requiring the withdrawal of troops “in a safe and orderly manner.”

Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., and others have a bill to begin withdrawals within 30 days and turn all U.S. military facilities over to the Iraqis.

More than 70 members of the House Progressive Caucus announced last week they favor a withdrawal over six months. A group of moderate Democrats has filed legislation requiring greater accountability over funds spent in Iraq.

Some withdrawal measures make exceptions for targeted anti-terrorist activity or security for U.S. personnel. Sestak’s plan would allow the military to provide air support for Iraqi forces.

Several bills would ban permanent U.S.. military bases in Iraq, and some place Iraq’s oil off-limits to U.S. government agencies or American companies. Some provide for reconstruction aid, others endorse regional diplomatic efforts.

One bill places a limit of 500 personnel on the U.S. embassy in Baghdad; provides assistance for elimination of land mines; envisions compensation for Iraqi noncombatant casualties; and supports establishment of an Iraqi Institute for Peace.

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