Media

The Cost of the War in Iraq on Military Families

Next week, General David Petraeus and Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker will testify before Congress about the Iraq war. As many media reports have made apparent, the intention of General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker next week is simply to announce a continuation of the current strategy -- the decision to maintain at least 140,000 U.S. troops in Iraq indefinitely was made weeks ago.

"We believe there is still time for you to recognize that a change in strategy is necessary to repair the grave damage done to our nation's security," the letter says. "We are committed to bringing about the necessary changes of course ... and hope you will work with us."

The full text of the letter is below:

April 4, 2008

The President

"Today's disturbing unemployment numbers, combined with Chairman Bernanke's recession warning, and threats to our standard living because of the rising costs of gas, groceries and health care compels the President to work with Congress on a second stimulus package to get our economy back on track, create jobs, and speed assistance to families struggling to make ends meet.

"When congressional leaders meet with the President next week, I will urge him to refocus his attention on America's economy and to again work in a bipartisan manner on a new stimulus package. We need to work together to restore consumer and market confidence, to assist millions of Americans threatened with the loss of their homes, and to help families meet the rising costs of necessities.