Posted on 03/04/2003 3:32:27 PM PST by ozone1
Senate rejects resolution on disarming Iraq
AUGUSTA (AP) — In a vote closely following party lines, the Maine Senate rejected a resolution Tuesday that urges President Bush to disarm Iraq through the United Nations and without military intervention. Senators turned down the resolution by a 18-17 vote after a debate in which supporters and opponents differed over whether such a discussion should be held at all in the Legislature. The matter must go back to the House, which has already amended it twice to address the concerns of opponents who said it was politically divisive and could dampen morale of U.S. troops who have been activated in the region. The latest House-backed version expresses support for “past, present and future veterans and their families.” It also urges President Bush to seek a resolution of the Iraqi threat through the United Nations and its member states without military intervention, provided it does not compromise the safety and security of Americans. During Tuesday's debate, Assistant Senate Republican Leader Chandler Woodcock of Farmington acknowledged that the issue has prompted many letters, e-mails and phone calls from constituents. Woodcock said one group that has not been heard from is veterans who gave their lives “so those who dissent can be heard.” “This is not an issue of war and anti-war,” said Woodcock. “This is solely an issue of venue.” Majority Leader Sharon Treat said it is “perfectly appropriate” to discuss an issue of such profound importance and interest in the Legislature, noting that American policy in disarming Iraq is being debated across kitchen tables, in town halls and other public forums.
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