GOP Frosh Praise Troops for Bin Laden Killing

This morning, GOP freshmen largely credited the military and intel community for bin Laden's death, as offices churned out statement after statement about the event.

Republican freshmen largely credited the American military and intelligence community for the death of Osama bin Laden this morning, as Congressional offices churned out statement after statement commemorating the event.

At last count, 55 Republican freshmen offices had released statements regarding the killing of bin Laden – but only about a quarter of these offices offered any credit to President Barack Obama or former President George W. Bush.

“Let there be no doubt: this is a major achievement and a victory for all Americans, especially for the men and women of the U.S. military and intelligence communities, who have sacrificed, along with their families, for the last ten years,” read a statement by Rep. Tim Griffin (AR-02).

A FrumForum survey of freshmen statements this morning shows that 15 freshmen, or 27% of the statements issued, gave President Obama some credit for the killing. Meanwhile, 13 freshmen (24%) mentioned former President Bush.

“There is no doubt that the justice brought today is due to the tireless effort and work of George W. Bush and the continued efforts of President Obama and his administration. Thank you to President Obama for continuing this effort to Bin Laden’s ultimate demise,” said Congresswoman Martha Roby (AL-02) in one such typical statement.

Two offices – Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Rep. Allen West (FL-22) – gave a hat tip to General David Petraeus. “I want to thank General Petraeus and our troops who, for years, have been fighting for justice,” said Crawford in a statement this morning. “Our appreciation and gratitude goes out to General Petreaus and the brave men and women in theater,” echoed West.

Other offices celebrated the death of bin Laden as a victory, without offering credit to any parties.

“Today is a great day for America. Osama bin Laden has finally faced justice. His death is a testament to the professionalism of our military and intelligence communities and brings an end to a dark chapter in our nation’s history. As an Air Force veteran who was serving when bin Laden started his reign of terror that culminated in the Sept. 11 attacks, I know that our fight against terrorism continues and dangers persist. We must remain vigilant in this war … and, we will win,” said Rep. Bill Johnson (OH-6).

Approximately thirty freshmen Republicans have yet to offer statements on the death of Osama bin Laden.

Add Tim on twitter: www.twitter.com/timkmak

Tweet