War-plank

* This is the war nobody wants.
* Anti-war voters have the political power to end the war, and end the careers of politicians who support the occupation. 
* The military-industrial complex could be overwhelmed by voters taking back their government and saying "no" to the permanent war economy.
* This war is unlike any we've known. 
:Veterans are facing serious post-traumatic stress disorders. We need to be honest with those who have spent months in a war zone like Iraq. Being jumpy, angry, unpredictable and depressed is common, sadly. 
:The nature of many of the blasts and the combination with the body armor means more are returning to the states without eyes, ears and limbs, but survived.
* I'm against the building of Permanent Bases in Iraq.
===Past statement posted Mark Rauterkus from Feb 6, 2005.===
The War in Iraq is nearly finished. I hope the end is near. I hope self determination and self reliance can occur there. I think voting is a vital key to making and keeping peace.
I want to stand for free trade and free travel among lawful citizens. One generally does not bomb your customers.
When the first Iraq war was happening, I was sad that those in exile from Kuwait were not given serious civics lessons. It is a puzzle to me that the US would re-install a kingdom. Democracy matters greatly.
Our voting system and process in the US is frail and leaves plenty to be desired. Another wish of mine is that we'd devote more resources and attention to our internal elements. The vote and governance issues, as well as upholding the constitution, is where our priorities should reside. Rauterkus 14:46, 6 Feb 2005 (EST)
==Links==
* War in Iraq
category:Platform_Planks_from_Mark_Rauterkus