U.S. Rep Chris Smith (R-NJ), issued the following statement on the day before the historic Parliamentary Elections in Iraq:

    “Just over 1000 days ago, the Iraqi people were subject to the rule of an evil dictator who was a menace to peace, global stability and human rights for years. The liberation of the Iraq provided freedom to the Iraqi people and released them from tyranny and oppression of a ruthless dictator, which will have positive effects on the entire region if we remain resolute in our mission. No doubt, the loss of lives has been excruciatingly painful, but our commitment to freedom must be steadfast.”

    “In the thousand days that have passed, the Iraqi people have demonstrated steps of progress by gradually assuming sovereignty over their country and writing and approving a constitution. In another historic step, tomorrow the people of Iraq will go to the polls for the third time this year to choose a new Parliament under the new constitution.”

    “As difficult as the past thousand days have been, the Iraqi people and American soldiers have also provided glimpses of great hope through their historic achievements. All Americans should pray and hope that the elections in Iraq will be successful tomorrow, as that country takes another step on the path toward democracy. The sooner that the Iraqi people are governing and adequately protecting themselves, the sooner that we will be able to bring our own men and women of the military home with the honor that they have earned.”