Pelosi to President: Tone Down Rhetoric and Work With Congress

'In light of the new National Intelligence Estimate, the President should re-evaluate his Iran policy, particularly his focus on the threat of military force at the expense of sustained diplomatic engagement.

'Congress has passed more than half a trillion dollars this year for defense, provided our troops with additional equipment, such as mine resistant vehicles, that the Administration failed to request, and offered a strategy that brings our troops home responsibly, safely and soon.

'Democrats in Congress have repeatedly signaled our willingness to work with the President to make progress for the American people and have been rebuffed at every turn.  There is no need for the Administration to fabricate a political standoff when Congressional leaders are willing to find common ground.

'I am hopeful the President will tone down his rhetoric, put down his veto pen, and work with Congress to make progress for the American people.'