H.R. 163, which was introduced by Charles Rangel (D-NY) and which would have reinstated the military draft, was voted on in the House of Representatives yesterday. The bill was overwhelmingly defeated with a vote of 402 to 2. Although this appears to be a resounding statement by Congress against conscripting young people into the military, it may be just election year political sparring. It's really not a surprise that almost everyone is opposed to a draft before elections.
The issue of the military draft has been laid to rest for the time being. Although only two members of Congress, Pete Stark (D-CA) and John Murtha (D-PA), voted against it, Democrats who voted in favor argue that this is an issue that will not rest. Democrats point to the increasing number of National Guard and Reserve units being used as the war and casualties in Iraq escalate. Tom Daschle, Senate Democratic leader said, "I would expect your going to continue to see debates about the viability of a draft as we move forward."
Although the Republican Congressional leaders brought this to the forefront in order to put it to rest, the military does not have enough people to carry out current military policy. The Bush Administration continues to talk of a never-ending war on terrorism. To bolster the size of the military President Bush has issued "Stop-loss orders", which prevent many in the military from leaving when their time is up. Sen. Kerry has called this policy a Ìback door draft'. Rep. McDermott (D-WA) raised the question, "How big a step is it from where we are now to the president saying it is the national interest that everyone serve?"
Sen. Kerry has said he wants to increase the size of the Army by 40,000. Although the President has said he will not reinstate the draft, he has no plans to alter his foreign policy which necessitates such a large number of troops. It remains a very real possibility that once the elections are past, if the troops levels are not met, the draft could be back on the table as a way to maintain or increase the size of the military.
Because of yesterday's vote, we now have a unique opportunity for Congress members hear from their constituents that the draft and current military policy of pre-emption and global military dominance are unacceptable.
If your Member voted against HR 163, make sure you thank him or her. If your Rep is one of the 2 who voted in favor of HR 163, make sure to let his office know how displeased you are with his vote. Members such as Charles Rangel and others who sponsored H.R. 163 need to hear from their constituents about the grave dangers of introducing such a bill, even as a protest against the war. And they need to know that at minimum, the rights of conscientious objectors need to be protected.
Center on Conscience & War
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