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Candidate Positions on Iraq War

The following positions reflect those used for each candidate in the Select A Candidate survey. They come from the candidates; public statements, Web sites, and responses to Minnesota Public Radio questionnaires. In some cases, candidiates have failed to respond to inquiries, and their position is noted as "No known opinion."

Question: Do you favor or oppose a set date (timeline) for the removal of U.S. troops from Iraq?
Ed MatthewsEd Matthews ANSWER OPTION: The "Surge" and related counterinsurgency operations have worked. We should continue to encourage the Iraqis to take responsibility for their own affairs, and build a stable nation in the Middle East, which is in our long-term strategic interest.
 CANDIDATE'S POSITION: The "Surge" and related counterinsurgency operations, implemented by the brave men and women of the U.S Armed Forces under General David Petraeus' leadership, have worked. Our military deserves our support, respect, and gratitude. We should continue to encourage the Iraqis to take responsibility for their own affairs, and build a stable nation in the Middle East, which is in our long-term strategic interest. I would encourage members of Congress to take time to understand the conditions on the ground before taking partisan stands on the conflict. (More Info)

Betty McCollumBetty McCollum ANSWER OPTION: I support setting benchmarks and a timetable for the withdrawal of troops from Iraq.
 CANDIDATE'S POSITION: McCollum voted YES on both H.R. 2956 (07/12/07) and H.R. 1591 (04/25/07) which set a timetable for withdrawal of troops from Iraq and approved funding while setting benchmarks and a timetable for the withdrawal of troops from Iraq. She voted against H.R. 2206 (5/24/07), a bill that provided funding without withdrawal deadlines for troops. (More Info)

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