Representative Mike Kelly Calls President Obama's Address on Libya a Good, but Long Overdue, Start

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               Contact: Julia Thornton

March 29, 2011                                                                                   202-225-5406 

Representative Mike Kelly Calls President Obama's Address on Libya a Good, but Long Overdue, Start

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (PA-03) issued the following statement on President Obama's address to the nation regarding U.S. military engagement in Libya:

“President Obama gave an important, albeit long overdue, explanation last night regarding his decision to authorize military operations in Libya. Since the U.S.-led military campaign began 10 days ago, Americans understandably have had many concerns, fears, and questions. While the President answered some important questions last night, he left many unanswered. We know little about the long-term objectives of the rebels whom we are aiding, we don't know how much our involvement will cost American taxpayers, and we don't understand what role Gaddafi will ultimately play if he is not overthrown. We still have, as Vice Admiral Bill Gortney, Director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said, 'knowledge gaps' that need to be addressed.

"As events continue to unfold, I will do my part on behalf of the 3rd District to make sure that the President and his Administration keep the public informed of our short and long-term goals as we enter the next phase of our involvement in Libya."

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