Maine lawmakers applaud decision Officials support role for Congress

WASHINGTON – Maine lawmakers on Capitol Hill applauded President Bush on Wednesday for his vow to win congressional approval and international support before launching new action against Iraq to thwart Saddam Hussein’s quest to build weapons of mass destruction.

Republican Sen. Olympia Snowe viewed the president’s statement – made after a White House meeting with congressional leaders – as a “valuable and constructive” step toward ensuring that the nation remains unified, according to Snowe spokesman Dave Lackey.

“It’s not required by law, but it’s important that the nation speak with one voice,” Lackey said. “It’s the right way to go.”

Fellow Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins shared similar sentiments, according to her deputy press secretary Caileen Nutter.

“Iraq is definitely a threat and the threat is imminent,” said Nutter, but added that Collins wants alternatives to military action considered. “She is really a proponent for alternative solutions. If an alternative has been researched, then Congress hasn’t been told about it yet.”

Democratic Rep. John Baldacci also believes Iraqi president Saddam Hussein to be a continuing threat, but agrees with the other Maine delegation members that the Bush Administration should first consult with Congress, the American people and U.S. allies, according to spokesman Doug Dunbar.

“The president needs to make his case before Congress and build international support,” Dunbar said. “That is all very crucial.”

Democratic Rep. Tom Allen said Wednesday he is relieved the White House has come around to the position that it first needs to win congressional support for future actions against Iraq.

“Even if Congress isn’t about to declare war, it must be involved and we need to be asking certain questions,” said Allen, who is concerned about the risks of military action; something that he predicted could cost tens of billions of dollars.

“It would also be a serious mistake without support from allies,” Allen added. “We could wind up in a huge political mess that could cause many unanticipated consequences.”