President Bush Speaks Out About Request for More Funding for Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

According to a press release from the United States White House, President Bush spoke out about his most recent request to Congress for additional funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Iraq and Afghanistan war funding supplemental requests $46 million in addition to the wars 2008 fiscal year budget of $145 million.

President Bush stated that: "I strongly agree that we must provide our troops with the help and support they need to get the job done. Parts of this war are complicated, but one part is not, and that is America should do what it takes to support our troops and protect our people. And today, I sent Congress an updated supplemental war funding request that will do just that."

The President pointed out that most of the requested funding will provide for daily military expenses in Afghanistan and Iraq. Average needs such as bullets, body armor, and vehicles specially armored to withstand mines and IEDs will be covered along with military needs such as training, embassy programs, and improvements for Iraqi security forces. Bush also claimed that the money would fund intelligence activities crucial for the protection of American troops.

President Bush claimed that the supplemental was based on recommendations from the generals and other military leaders currently stationed in Iraq.

Despite the President's assertions the growing cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan appears to have touched a nerve with U.S. citizens that seem to be rapidly growing disillusioned with the conflicts.

Obstacles facing severely injured soldiers that return from the conflicts and their families has caused an uproar in the United States. President Bush seized upon this sentiment by indicating that funds requested under the supplemental would be used to provide medical care for injured soldiers in addition to paying for support for all U.S. troops.

The President claimed in his address that 3/4 of the requested funds had already been detailed in the original supplemental that he submitted, along with the regular 2008 budget, back in February of 2007. Taking a shot at members of congress, he warned legislators against passing a bill that contained strings or any other kinds of projects or contingencies.

"Members of Congress should consider the supplemental promptly. They should keep it focused on true necessities, not pet projects. And they should pass a good, clean bill as soon as possible. Congress should not go home for the holidays while our troops are still waiting for the funds they need."